NEW DELHI: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has achieved nearly 30 per cent of its target under its Mega Plantation Drive within days of its launch, planting over 6.62 lakh saplings, including more than 37,000 trees and 6.25 lakh shrubs, officials said.
The plantation drive is being carried out under the guidance of Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, who has consistently emphasised ecological restoration, environmental sustainability and the expansion of Delhi’s green infrastructure. The progress of the drive is being closely monitored to ensure effective implementation and the long-term survival of the saplings.
The L_G has directed all departments to ensure continuous monitoring so that the planted saplings survive and contribute to the city’s green cover. The plantation campaign began in the first week of July and will continue till mid-September 2026. It focuses on planting native and climate-resilient species to improve biodiversity, strengthen carbon sequestration, enhance microclimatic regulation and increase ecological connectivity across Delhi’s green spaces.
According to the DDA, the initiative is also expected to improve air quality, support groundwater recharge, create habitats for wildlife and enhance the overall urban environment.
The drive forms part of the Mission 70 Lakh Plantation campaign under ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’, launched by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on July 7. Of the 70 lakh saplings targeted across Delhi, the DDA has been assigned the responsibility of planting nearly 23 lakh native saplings during the current plantation season.
To encourage public participation, the DDA has partnered with Resident Welfare Associations, educational institutions, religious organisations, volunteer groups and corporate institutions, aiming to turn plantation into a people’s movement.
The plantation is being undertaken across 675 DDA parks, the South Central Ridge, Nanakpura Ridge, Central Ridge and Northern Ridge, besides six biodiversity parks, identified green corridors and other intervention zones.
L-G asks depts to ensure continuous monitoring
Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu has directed all departments to ensure continuous monitoring so that the planted saplings survive and contribute to the city’s green cover. Thre campaign will continue till mid-September
