Government sets target to plant over 70 lakh trees

The Delhi Government has set a target to plant over 70 lakh trees, shrubs, and bamboo hedges across the city under its Green Action Plan (GAP) for 2026-27, as part of a major push to expand green cover and tackle pollution.

The revised plan assigns plantation responsibilities to 22 departments and agencies, with the Department of Forests and Wildlife designated as the nodal agency to monitor implementation. Progress will be tracked through an online GAP portal to ensure transparency and accountability.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the initiative reflects a coordinated effort by multiple agencies to address environmental challenges.

He stated that the Government is adopting a multi-layered plantation strategy, which includes planting tall trees, shrubs, and ground cover to improve air quality and strengthen ecological balance.

According to official targets, the Forests and Wildlife Department will undertake the largest share, with over 27 lakh plantations. The Delhi Development Authority has been assigned a target of 10 lakh trees, while the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will plant 5 lakh. The New Delhi Municipal Council has a target of 5.05 lakh plantations.

Sirsa said the initiative builds on last year’s plantation drives, which saw participation from a wide range of stakeholders, including students, citizens, public officials, and international representatives.