Supreme Court Acts to Protect Delhi’s Ecologically Sensitive Morphological Ridge

Current Affairs National

Posted by newadmin on 2025-05-12 08:40:43 |

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 37

---

On May 7, 2025, the Supreme Court of India issued show cause notices to senior officials of the Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and private developer RR Texknit LLP over alleged violations in a housing project located within the Morphological Ridge—an ecologically sensitive region of the capital. The action follows a contempt petition filed by environmental activist Bhavreen Kandhari, citing potential ecological damage and lack of required court clearances for the project.

The Morphological Ridge forms part of the larger Delhi Ridge, an extension of the ancient Aravalli range. Stretching approximately 35 km, it serves as a natural barrier against desertification and pollution, playing a critical role in maintaining Delhi’s ecological balance. Although not officially notified as forest land, the Ridge is protected under various court orders.

Characterised by rocky terrain and tropical dry thorn forests, the Ridge is home to native vegetation like bistendu and broad-leaved dhak. Land in this area, classified as gair mumkin pahad (uncultivable rocky land), is under strict regulatory oversight. Any development requires approvals from the Ridge Management Board and the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee.

The recent legal action underscores the tension between urban development and environmental protection, reinforcing the need for adherence to ecological safeguards in India’s fast-expanding cities.

Go!