Delhi to clear invasive kikar from Ridge in 4-year eco-restoration drive

• Delhi Forest Department plans a four-year eco-restoration exercise to remove invasive 'kikar' and other species from the Ridge forests.
• The project, part of a working plan (2026-27 to 2036-37) approved by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, targets 6,303.55 hectares.
• It aims to eradicate invasive species like Prosopis juliflora (kikar), Leucaena leucocephala, and eucalyptus, which threaten native biodiversity.
• The plan requires final clearance from the Supreme Court as the Ridge is under judicial protection.
• 'Vilayati kikar', native to South and Central America, covers over 60% of Delhi's green cover, displacing native plants and reducing biodiversity.