In a significant step toward ecological restoration, Amrut Biodiversity Park was inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena in 2025. Spanning 90 hectares along NH-24 in the Yamuna floodplains, this park is part of the Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) initiative to rejuvenate the floodplain ecosystem. Designed to enhance green spaces in Delhi, the park also serves as a hub for environmental awareness and biodiversity conservation.
Restoring Delhi’s Floodplain Ecosystem
Before its transformation, the site was primarily agricultural land and informal settlements. The restoration project aimed to revive the natural hydrology of the floodplains while addressing flood risks. Key features of the transformation include:
- Six water bodies with a combined capacity of 225 million litres, designed to store stormwater and reduce flood threats.
- Jute-reinforced slopes and riverine grass communities, stabilizing the land and supporting groundwater recharge.
- Dredging of existing catchments, ensuring effective water flow management, especially during monsoon seasons.
By restoring these vital ecological elements, the park helps mitigate the effects of urban flooding while creating a sustainable habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
A Thriving Hub for Biodiversity
One of the core objectives of Amrut Biodiversity Park is enhancing Delhi’s urban biodiversity. To achieve this, a diverse range of native trees, shrubs, and grasses has been planted:
- 14,500 trees, including Neem, Peepal, and Mango, contributing to air purification and shade.
- 18,000 shrubs and 3.21 lakh riverine grasses, creating a lush, green environment.
- This diverse vegetation is expected to attract various bird species, improving the ecological balance of the region.
With its carefully curated plant species and water bodies, the park is set to become a refuge for migratory birds, pollinators, and small wildlife, reinforcing Delhi’s green cover.
Public Engagement and Recreational Spaces
Amrut Biodiversity Park is not just an environmental project—it is also designed to be an interactive public space. To foster community involvement and historical awareness, the park features:
🏞 Two dedicated public spaces along NH-24, offering Delhiites a serene retreat amidst nature.
🇮🇳 Tracks named after historic events, including the Dandi March and the First War of Independence, blending nature with India’s freedom struggle.
🚶♂️ Walking and jogging trails, encouraging health and wellness while immersing visitors in greenery.
By integrating nature with history, the park aims to educate visitors while promoting environmental consciousness.
Water Management: Balancing Nature and Urbanization
A key challenge in developing a park in a flood-prone area is hydrology management. The DDA has addressed this by:
- Dredging existing water catchments to manage monsoon water levels effectively.
- Ensuring water bodies remain visible and functional throughout the year, enhancing aesthetic and ecological benefits.
- Using natural filtration methods to maintain water quality and support biodiversity.
This strategic water management not only sustains the park but also serves as a model for urban floodplain restoration.
Environmental Concerns and Challenges
While the Amrut Biodiversity Park has been praised for its ecological vision, it has also faced criticism from environmental activists:
⚠ Flood risks: Concerns about monsoon inundation due to the park’s location on the Yamuna floodplains.
⚠ Financial viability: Questions about long-term maintenance costs and sustainability.
⚠ Land use conflicts: Some experts argue that natural floodplains should remain untouched rather than being landscaped.
Despite these challenges, the DDA remains optimistic that the park will flourish over time, offering both environmental and recreational benefits to Delhi’s residents.
Future Developments: A Space for Nature and Community
Looking ahead, the DDA has exciting plans to enhance the visitor experience:
- A café for visitors, providing a relaxing space for joggers and nature enthusiasts.
- Educational programs on biodiversity conservation, engaging students and researchers.
- Improved trails and seating areas, making the park more accessible for all age groups.
With these additions, Amrut Biodiversity Park is set to become a key landmark in Delhi’s green movement, serving as a sanctuary for nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and environmentalists alike.
Summing Up
The inauguration of Amrut Biodiversity Park marks a significant step in Delhi’s journey toward ecological restoration and sustainable urban development. As the park evolves, it will not only strengthen the city’s biodiversity but also serve as a model for urban green space rejuvenation across India.
With ongoing conservation efforts, community participation, and responsible management, the park has the potential to become a thriving green lung for Delhi, fostering a harmonious balance between urbanization and nature.