Supreme Court Action on Morphological Ridge Violations
The Supreme Court of India has taken action regarding the Morphological Ridge in Delhi. On May 7, 2025, it issued show cause notices to senior officials from the Delhi government, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and a private developer. This follows allegations of violations related to a housing project in an ecologically sensitive area. The project, developed by RR Texknit LLP, was approved without necessary court clearances. Environmental activist Bhavreen Kandhari filed a contempt petition, denoting the potential ecological damage.
About the Morphological Ridge
The Morphological Ridge is part of the Delhi Ridge, which is the southern extension of the ancient Aravalli hill range. This area is ecologically vital as it serves as a green lung for Delhi. It stretches approximately 35 km and acts as a natural barrier against pollution and desertification. While not officially designated as forest land, the Morphological Ridge is protected under various court rulings.
Ecological Significance
The Morphological Ridge is crucial for maintaining ecological balance. It features rocky outcrops and dry thorn forest vegetation. This area is home to native plant species that are adapted to dry conditions. The ecological importance of this region has been recognised in official documents, emphasising the need for conservation. The Ridge acts as a buffer zone for the core forest area, protecting it from unrestricted development.
Characteristics of the Morphological Ridge
The Morphological Ridge consists mainly of tropical dry thorn forest. The vegetation varies from north to south, influenced by soil texture and moisture levels. The southern part is drier and more rugged, while the central and northern areas have denser vegetation. Common native species include bistendu and broad-leaved dhak. The region is classified as gair mumkin pahad, indicating its rocky and uncultivable nature.
Regulation of Land Use
Land use in the Morphological Ridge is strictly regulated. Any changes require approval from the Ridge Management Board and the Supreme Court-appointed Central Empowered Committee. However, disputes have arisen among environmentalists, residents, and developers regarding land use. Ground-truthing and field verification processes are still pending, delaying the final notification of the area as a Reserved Forest under the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
Recent Developments
The Supreme Court’s recent actions highlight the ongoing struggle between development and environmental conservation. The court’s directives aim to ensure that any construction in the Morphological Ridge adheres to legal and ecological standards. This situation puts stress on the importance of safeguarding sensitive ecological zones in urban areas.
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