A plan by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to construct a cycle track through Jahanpanah City Forest, Ridge, Tughlaqabad Biodiversity Park and the eco-sensitive zone of Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary is facing staunch opposition from residents and environmental activists. The residents fear that the project, part of DDA’s proposed Delhi Cycle Walk, will lead to the felling of trees and disrupt the habitats of animals.
The Delhi Cycle Walk project aims to create a dedicated and safe corridor for cyclists and pedestrians, covering a total distance of 201 km, to be completed in five phases. The first phase includes a 36 km cycle track that traverses the eco-sensitive zones within Jahanpanah forest, Southern Ridge, Tughlaqabad Park, and Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
According to the DDA’s proposal, the project aims to provide a safe, green, last-mile connectivity option and an eco-friendly mode of mobility. It also seeks to enable citizens to appreciate the natural and archaeological heritage of Delhi by experiencing it while cycling or walking.
However, local residents and environmental advocates believe that the cycle track project will disrupt the forest environment and negatively impact the wildlife that calls the area home. They are concerned that tree felling will occur and tranquility and greenery of Jahanpanah forest will be compromised.
The project had received approval from the Ridge Management Board last year. However, the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) of the Supreme Court approved the project on August 31, under the condition that necessary permissions are obtained from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the National Board of Wildlife.
