Delhi’s green cover up by 3%, claims environment minister

On World Environment Day, Delhi’s Environment Minister Gopal Rai announced a significant increase in the city’s green cover, highlighting the achievements of the Delhi government’s ongoing tree plantation campaign. The green cover in Delhi has risen to 23.06%, up from 20% in 2013.
Rai noted that the Delhi government had set an ambitious target of planting 2 crore saplings over five years, a goal achieved in just four years due to robust public participation. He emphasized that the success of environmental initiatives depends on collective efforts, urging citizens to refrain from polluting and to prevent others from doing so.
The Environment Minister also mentioned that despite the ongoing Model Code of Conduct, plans are in place to further accelerate the tree plantation campaign once it concludes. This will involve coordination with various departments to ensure the continued expansion of Delhi’s green cover. Rai highlighted the importance of this development, particularly in the context of the current severe heat wave affecting the entire country, including Delhi. He urged residents to plant trees on the rooftops of their homes to mitigate pollution and reduce heat. This call to action aligns with the government’s broader environmental strategy to combat adverse weather conditions and improve air quality.
With the green cover now at 23.06%, Delhi leads the country in per capita forest cover among cities. The government’s monitoring of plant survival rates ensures the effectiveness and longevity of its plantation efforts. Under the Green Action Plan 2023-24, the target of planting and distributing 52 lakh saplings is nearly complete, further contributing to the city’s environmental goals.