Supreme Court's Order Fulfilled: Delhi Ridge Gets a New Statutory Board to Protect its Vital Ecosystem

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In a move aimed at safeguarding Delhi's 'green lungs,' the Union environment ministry has reconstituted the Delhi Ridge Management Board (DRMB) with statutory powers. This decision comes after the Supreme Court directed the ministry to do so in November, citing the need for a single entity to oversee permissions, monitor encroachments, and protect the Ridge's ecosystem. The new DRMB will replace the existing board, which was established in 1995 but lacked statutory powers. The reconstituted board will have 13 members, including the chief secretary of the Delhi government, representatives from the ministries of environment, forests, and housing, and two civil society members. The board's functions will include removing encroachments, overseeing afforestation, and protecting the Ridge's ecosystem. Experts, however, remain skeptical about the board's effectiveness, citing the need for immediate remediation and the potential for overlapping jurisdictions. Despite these concerns, the reconstituted DRMB is seen as a significant step towards protecting the Ridge, which is under pressure from real estate interests, construction activity, and government projects. The Delhi Ridge is a vital ecological asset, replenishing groundwater, moderating pollution, and providing habitat for wildlife. Its protection is crucial for the city's ecological balance, and the new DRMB is expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding this landscape. According to the Supreme Court's order, the DRMB's statutory status ensures binding decision-making authority and oversight, resolving long-standing jurisdictional gaps. The board will be required to report to the Supreme Court every three months regarding its functioning and the removal of encroachments. While the new board represents a significant strengthening of the governance framework for the Ridge's protection, experts caution that its success will depend on its ability to act decisively and effectively. The reconstituted DRMB has a critical role to play in protecting Delhi's 'green lungs' and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the city's ecosystem.