The Delhi Ridge and the floodplains, the two vital ecosystems in the National Capital Territory of India, are facing significant degradation due to urbanization, pollution, encroachment by the migrant population, and invasive plant species. This chapter explores the challenges encountered in the ecological restoration of the Ridge and the floodplain, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and soil degradation. Urban encroachment has severely impacted native flora and fauna, leading to biodiversity loss and disruption of ecosystem services. Furthermore, invasive species have outcompeted indigenous plants, altering the ecological balance. Mitigation strategies proposed include the implementation of community-based restoration programmes that engage local populations in conservation efforts. This involves reforestation with native species, removal of invasive plants, and restoration of natural water bodies to enhance biodiversity. Additionally, establishing protective legislation and promoting sustainable land use practices are crucial for long-term success. The chapter emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary and holistic approaches, integrating ecological, social, and economic perspectives to address the complexities of urban ecological restoration. By encouraging a collaborative framework among stakeholders, the restoration of the Delhi Ridge and the floodplains can serve as a model for similar urban ecosystems facing ecological challenges. Ultimately, this effort aims to restore the ecological integrity of the Ridge and the floodplain while enhancing its resilience against future environmental pressures.

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Ecological Restoration in Delhi: Challenges and Their Mitigation

  • Rita Rath,
  • Sadhna Gupta,
  • Neeraja Sood,
  • Versha Goel,
  • Roopa Rani Samal

摘要

The Delhi Ridge and the floodplains, the two vital ecosystems in the National Capital Territory of India, are facing significant degradation due to urbanization, pollution, encroachment by the migrant population, and invasive plant species. This chapter explores the challenges encountered in the ecological restoration of the Ridge and the floodplain, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and soil degradation. Urban encroachment has severely impacted native flora and fauna, leading to biodiversity loss and disruption of ecosystem services. Furthermore, invasive species have outcompeted indigenous plants, altering the ecological balance. Mitigation strategies proposed include the implementation of community-based restoration programmes that engage local populations in conservation efforts. This involves reforestation with native species, removal of invasive plants, and restoration of natural water bodies to enhance biodiversity. Additionally, establishing protective legislation and promoting sustainable land use practices are crucial for long-term success. The chapter emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary and holistic approaches, integrating ecological, social, and economic perspectives to address the complexities of urban ecological restoration. By encouraging a collaborative framework among stakeholders, the restoration of the Delhi Ridge and the floodplains can serve as a model for similar urban ecosystems facing ecological challenges. Ultimately, this effort aims to restore the ecological integrity of the Ridge and the floodplain while enhancing its resilience against future environmental pressures.