Delhi DDA plants 662,000 saplings in ongoing greening campaign

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has planted more than 6.62 lakh (662,000) saplings, including over 37,000 trees and 6.25 lakh shrubs, achieving roughly 30 % of its 23 lakh‑plant target for the Mega Plantation drive that runs from early July to mid‑September 2026. The effort, launched by Union Home Minister Amit Shah under the “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” campaign, focuses on native, climate‑resilient species and aims to boost biodiversity, carbon sequestration, micro‑climatic regulation, groundwater recharge, habitat creation and overall urban livability across Delhi’s parks, ridge areas and biodiversity corridors.

Experts say that while such large‑scale tree planting can improve air quality, it must be complemented by stronger public transport, sustainable mobility and active citizen participation. A Knowledge Forum on Plantation and Greening, involving government agencies, NGOs and private organisations, is providing scientific guidance to expand Delhi’s green infrastructure and support the city’s fight against persistent pollution.