Ridge Revamp: Supreme Court Greenlights Eco-Friendly Upgrade of Delhi's Central Park

On September 28, 2025, a Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee (CEC) has recommended permitting the Central Public Works Department (CPWD) to use 4.1647 hectares of the Central Ridge's reserved forest for a two-phase upgrade of the Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi.

The CEC's report highlights that the CPWD's proposal would formalize visitor movement, reduce reliance on borewells, and improve safety, amenities, and eco-education without disturbing the Ridge's natural character. Phase I involves adding underground water-storage tanks and laying pipelines, while Phase II covers development and renovation works, including repairing walking tracks, upgrading facilities, and creating themed gardens.

However, the CEC has set several conditions for the project. The CPWD must deposit 5% of the project cost with the Ridge Management Board and strictly control the pipeline work to avoid damaging standing trees. The committee has also noted the need to improve the quality of "raw water" used for irrigation and restore the area's ecological character by planting indigenous trees and shrubs.

The CEC's recommendation marks a shift from its previous findings, which had flagged unauthorized excavation and pruning and ordered immediate ecological improvement measures. The panel acknowledged that any procedural lapses should not deprive the public of the project's benefits, as long as ecological safeguards are followed.