New Delhi is embarking on a pivotal environmental initiative as the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has granted approval for the conservation and sustainable management of the Yamuna river’s floodplain wetlands within the capital. This landmark decision also includes the formalisation of an Urban River Management Plan (URMP) for Delhi, aiming to integrate sustainable water governance directly into the city’s master plan. This multi-faceted approach signifies a critical commitment to ecological restoration, enhancing the resilience of the urban environment, and fostering a more equitable and eco-friendly relationship between the city and its life-giving river.
The approved project on wetlands will undertake a comprehensive inventory and assessment of all wetlands situated within a 10-kilometre buffer zone of the Yamuna. This scientific endeavour will include mapping wetlands at a 1:10,000 scale, analysing decadal changes in wetland areas over 20 years, and creating detailed inventory data covering physical features, hydrological regimes, and ecological characteristics. The initiative aims to develop “wetland ecosystem health cards,” a prioritisation matrix, and tailored management plans for critical wetlands, coupled with training programmes for wetland managers. Such detailed planning is essential for the effective conservation of these vital ecosystems, which play a crucial role in flood mitigation, groundwater recharge, and biodiversity preservation, all critical for a sustainable urban footprint.
Overseeing the smooth implementation of this complex project will be a dedicated committee comprising key stakeholders, including the Wetland Authority of Delhi, the Union environment ministry, Delhi Development Authority, NMCG, and Wetland International South Asia. This collaborative governance model is paramount for ensuring that environmental objectives are seamlessly integrated into urban development policies. Furthermore, the Delhi URMP will incorporate a significant component focused on the ‘safe re-use of treated water,’ highlighting a progressive approach to water resource management and contributing to a circular economy within the city. IIT-Delhi, through its Centre of Excellence (CoE) established under the NMCG-IITD Dutch collaboration, will provide crucial support for the URMP’s preparation, leveraging international expertise in intelligent river systems.
This focused effort in Delhi is part of a much larger national vision under the River Cities Alliance (RCA), launched in 2021 to rejuvenate urban rivers across India. In April, NMCG approved an extensive action plan for 145 cities located along various rivers, guiding them towards river-sensitive urban development. This extensive network includes major urban centres like Kanpur, Ayodhya, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, which have already developed their respective URMPs, setting a benchmark for other cities. The commitment is to prepare 60 such plans across India by December 2026, at a cost exceeding ₹21 crore.
The revitalisation of the Yamuna and its floodplain wetlands is not merely an environmental undertaking; it is a fundamental step towards creating a healthier, more resilient, and equitable urban fabric for Delhi. Healthy river ecosystems are critical for public well-being, providing green spaces for recreation, supporting local livelihoods, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By prioritizing the ecological health of the Yamuna and integrating it into the city’s development strategy, Delhi is demonstrating a commitment to a future where natural systems are valued as integral components of a thriving, modern metropolis, ultimately benefiting all its inhabitants. The project is slated for completion by December next year, marking a significant milestone in Delhi’s environmental stewardship.
Also Read :Sangam-area waterlogging as Ganga‑Yamuna rise activates flood preparedness measures
