The forest department has formally recommended the closure of an unauthorised road cutting through the Rajokari forest area. The road, reportedly laid without approval through a notified reserve forest in the Southern Ridge, has come under intense legal and environmental scrutiny. The issue reached the National Green Tribunal (NGT) after a local residents’ welfare association raised concerns over the environmental degradation and illegal movement of heavy vehicles on the road.
The petition claimed that the passage not only violates forest protection norms but also disturbs the natural habitat of the region, putting its fragile biodiversity at risk. In its official report submitted to the tribunal on May 21 and disclosed recently, the forest department confirmed that the road stretches nearly 1,229 metres within designated forest khasras. It also noted that an additional extension of 1,826 metres leads further into Rajokari West, aggravating encroachment into sensitive ecological zones. The land falls squarely under protected forest classification, a status which prohibits any non-forest activity unless duly permitted. The report underscores the urgency of action, calling for immediate identification of those responsible for constructing and using the road. Multiple government departments, including the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the Public Works Department (PWD), and the Municipal Corporation, have been asked to submit records to trace accountability and explore viable alternatives that respect environmental laws.
Officials further noted that communication had already been sent to the forest settlement officers of South and South-West Delhi districts, urging them to review pending and resolved land claims related to the involved khasras. This process is expected to provide legal clarity on the land ownership and potential scope for enforcement. The forest department has taken a clear position in favour of shutting the road entirely, citing environmental, legal, and social reasons. “Closure of the illegal route will directly support the preservation of forest cover and protect native wildlife,” the report states. It also highlighted the increasing misuse of the area for dumping construction debris and solid waste, which is rapidly degrading soil quality and intensifying land pollution in the already vulnerable ridge zone.
Environmental experts believe this move is crucial in Delhi’s long-term vision for ecological restoration and sustainable urban planning. The Southern Ridge, as part of the Aravalli ecosystem, serves as the city’s natural barrier against dust storms and rising urban heat. Preserving its integrity is essential for maintaining Delhi’s biodiversity and ensuring its resilience against climate shocks. While the closure recommendation awaits judicial direction, the case reflects a broader systemic issue of unchecked urbanisation intruding into eco-sensitive areas. It also signals the growing resolve among government agencies to align with environmental mandates amid increasing civic activism and legal intervention.
The outcome of the tribunal’s deliberation may set a critical precedent for how Delhi handles its urban-forest conflict. If the unauthorised road is permanently closed, it will mark a victory not just for the rule of law, but for the environment and the citizens advocating for a cleaner, greener capital. The story continues to unfold, but what remains certain is this—Delhi’s forests are watching, and perhaps, finally, they’re being heard.
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