L-G: DDA transformed encroached Yamuna land into ecological zone

The Delhi Development Authority has reclaimed 225 acres of encroached land in the Yamuna floodplain and redeveloped it into a green, ecological zone with recreational spaces, including public parks and walking trails.

“Till May 2022, a massive 225-acre Yamuna floodplain area near ITO barrage on the eastern banks of the river was under massive encroachment by squatters and stray cattle that were polluting Yamuna severely. The L-G [V.K. Saxena] started a drive to clean this degraded land while restoring and rejuvenating Yamuna, and by November 2022, this area was transformed into the biggest breathable, public green space in entire east Delhi,” said a book titled ‘Asita’ on Yamuna rejuvenation released by the L-G on Saturday.

A forest was created on the floodplain by planting over 6,000 trees, it stated. Moreover, recreational spaces such as public parks, cafes, and walking trails along the river, as well as art and craft installations, were introduced to attract people.

The Delhi government has recently launched a comprehensive 45-point action plan to rejuvenate Yamuna, which includes sewage treatment, desilting drains, solid waste and stormwater management.

The 22-km stretch between Wazirabad and Okhla is severely polluted and is the focal point.