Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the Mission 70 Lakh Plantation campaign in New Delhi today, under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative. The programme marked the start of a wider environmental plan that includes the rejuvenation of the Delhi Ridge, expansion of electric public transport, and new infrastructure projects. The announcements were made during an event attended by senior Union and Delhi government officials.

Delhi Ridge Restoration Targets Long-Term Ecological Recovery

The Delhi Government said it has declared about 5,000 hectares of the Delhi Ridge as protected forest land, providing legal protection after the final notification remained pending since the original 1994 notification. Officials said the Ridge Rejuvenation Campaign will replace invasive and environmentally unsuitable tree species with native varieties such as peepal, banyan, neem, arjun, jamun, and gular over the next three years.

The government also announced plans to restore more than 70 ponds, water bodies, and archaeological sites within the Ridge. Eight themed forests, including Nakshatra Van and Rishi Van, are planned as part of the restoration.

Green Mobility and Yamuna Rejuvenation Take Center Stage

Alongside the plantation drive, Shah flagged off 300 electric buses, inaugurated three new bus depots, and launched automated vehicle testing centres. Officials said these projects support Delhi's transition toward cleaner public transport under its Electric Vehicle policy.

The government also announced plans to prevent untreated cow dung from entering the Yamuna River through a proposed partnership with the National Dairy Development Board. According to officials, the waste will be converted into biogas and organic manure. Authorities further stated that 129 sewage treatment plants are operational, with 59 additional plants planned to improve wastewater treatment.

Public Participation Forms Key Part of Campaign

The Green Drive Portal has been launched to distribute free saplings and encourage residents to participate in tree plantation through the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign. Officials said the initiative aims to increase public participation while strengthening Delhi's urban green cover and environmental resilience.