Biodiversity hotspot Delhi Ridge is the city's saving grace

The ever-growing and ever-changing Delhi, the country's capital city, can be a stifling place sometimes. Thankfully, the city has its green pockets, because of which the city is livable to a great extent. One such green pocket is the Delhi Ridge, also known as the Delhi Aravalli Ridge.

The Delhi Ridge is a prominent geological feature and biodiversity hotspot located in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, India. It is a part of the larger Aravalli Range system, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, dating back millions of years. The Aravalli Range is spread across states like Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat.


The Delhi chapter of the Aravalli Range comprises several protected forests, including the Northern Ridge (North Campus of the Delhi University), Southern Ridge, and Tughlaqabad Ridge. These three collectively form the Delhi Ridge.


It is imperative to note that the Delhi Ridge serves as a critical green lung for the city, and something the city can't do without.



Looking at Delhi, the megapolis that it is today, it is almost hard to imagine a place like this, with millions of people, as a place with a diverse range of flora and fauna. All thanks to the city's green pockets.


The Delhi Ridge is home to various species of plants and a variety of wildlife, such as jackals, Indian crested porcupines, mongooses, nilgai, wild boar, a wide range of bird species and the occasional leopard.




Northern Ridge area, near Vidhan Sabha in North Delhi, is easily one of the most beautiful, lush and refreshing places in Delhi. The ridge area, with a slightly elevated topography, makes for a very pretty drive. No wonder, many residents love to come out here on the weekends.


A quick stroll inside the Ridge can be quite refreshing, especially since the foliage is pretty dense here. Shaded grounds, pretty walking trails, what more do we need for a nice day of picnic? It is a popular spot for hiking, nature walks, and environmental education programs.

Also read: Have you thought about Backyard Tourism yet?


Due to its ecological importance, there have been numerous efforts to protect and conserve the Delhi Ridge. For this purpose, the Delhi Ridge was declared a reserved forest area.



But unfortunately, despite many conservation efforts, the Delhi Ridge faces several challenges. Urban encroachment, deforestation, and pollution to name some. Somehow, we still lag behind when it comes to balancing urban development with nature conservation.

Also read: What's hidden beneath the canopy of the Amazon Rainforest?


May we not forget or overlook Delhi Ridge's role as a crucial geological, ecological, and historical feature in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.