How not to restore a forest — the inept dismantling of Delhi's Central Ridge, Pg9

Key Highlights:

• Delhi's Central Ridge is undergoing a "restoration" process by the Forest Department.
• This involves clearing native flora and planting unsuitable tree species, contrary to ecological principles.
• The invasive species vilayati keekar is being removed using methods that cause significant ecological damage.
• Concerns include the use of toxic anti-termite chemicals and the "parkification" of the natural forest.
• The approach, partly prescribed by the Forest Research Institute, risks increased aerosol dust and water scarcity.

Detailed Insights:

• The Central Ridge, an 8.5 sq km semi-wild tract, has shrunk over time and is now central to Delhi.
• Vilayati keekar (Prosopis juliflora) was introduced in the 1920s and became dominant due to its adaptability to dry, rocky soil.
• Current planting involves species like jamun and arjun, typically found on riverbanks, at extremely high densities (2,500 per hectare).
• Forest Department tenders required toxic anti-termite chemicals, some banned in India, which destroy beneficial soil microorganisms and fungi.
• Plans include creating small theme-park-like "vans" with exotic ornamental plants, Miyawaki forests, a bonsai park, and allocating parts to gaushalas.
• This "restoration" approach is also being applied to other Ridge forests and Biodiversity Parks across Delhi.
• The extensive clearing of woody shrubs and old trees is expected to cause a massive spike in aerosol dust during winter.
• Irrigating lakhs of unsuitable trees will strain Delhi's water resources, potentially using treated sewage water with harmful nitrates and pesticides.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Central Ridge: A vital ecological lung of Delhi, part of the Aravalli Range, providing habitat and environmental services.
• Vilayati Keekar (Prosopis juliflora): An aggressive invasive alien species that outcompetes native vegetation and alters ecosystems.
• Miyawaki forests: A technique for rapid afforestation using dense planting of native species, though its ecological mimicry is debated.
• Biodiversity Parks: Urban ecological spaces designed to conserve and enhance local biodiversity, often involving ecological restoration.
• Forest Research Institute: An institution under the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE), involved in forestry research and education.