Date:28/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/28/stories/2006042815880400.htm

New Delhi

"Restore glory of the Aravallis"

Staff Reporter

Maken inspects Bio-diversity Park developed by DDA

NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State for Urban Development Ajay Maken has asked the Delhi Development Authority to restore the glory of the Aravallis by undertaking efforts to ensure revival of all extinct plant species and survival and protection of fauna in the Capital to maintain environmental harmony and ecological balance.

Speaking after an inspection round of the Aravalli Biodiversity Park being developed by DDA in the Vasant Kunj area of South-West Delhi earlier this week, Mr. Maken said a comprehensive and sustainable plan of action for maintenance of parks and green areas in the city should be formulated and put in place by DDA. Any such plan, he added, should be developed in conjunction with the local residents' welfare associations. He said the RWAs should also be sensitised and consulted so that there is proactive participation of people in such efforts. After witnessing a presentation on the prospective plan for the Biodiversity Park, Mr. Maken said various ways for increasing the vegetation cover also need to be undertaken in other parks of the city so that apart from adding to the aesthetics, bio-diversity is also sustained.