Delhi Assigns Officers Responsibility To Ensure Survival Of One Lakh Planted Saplings

Officers will now be held accountable for ensuring the survival of more than one lakh saplings planted across Delhi as part of a major plantation drive, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) said. The move follows directions from Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu, who asked the agency to establish a system for regular monitoring and maintenance of newly planted trees and shrubs. The DDA has appointed nodal officers for individual plantation sites across the capital, with each officer responsible for overseeing the growth and upkeep of saplings under their supervision. According to the agency, the officers will monitor the planted areas and ensure that the saplings receive necessary care to improve their chances of surviving and developing into mature trees.

The accountability mechanism was announced as the DDA conducted a large-scale plantation campaign across Delhi on Friday. During the single-day drive, more than one lakh saplings, including trees and shrubs, were planted at 77 different locations in the city. The initiative is part of efforts to increase green cover and improve environmental conditions in the national capital. Lieutenant Governor Sandhu directed the DDA to move beyond short-term plantation exercises and focus on long-term maintenance. Officials said planting trees alone is not sufficient unless proper systems are created for watering, protection, monitoring and regular care.

The appointment of nodal officers is intended to ensure that responsibility continues after the completion of plantation activities. Delhi has frequently faced environmental challenges, including air pollution, rising temperatures and reduced green spaces due to rapid urbanisation. Expanding tree cover is considered an important measure to improve air quality, provide shade, support biodiversity and reduce the impact of extreme heat in urban areas. Experts have often emphasised that the success of plantation drives depends on the survival rate of saplings rather than the number planted.

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Young plants require consistent maintenance, especially during the initial growth period, when they are vulnerable to water shortages, damage and unsuitable conditions. Monitoring systems and clear accountability are considered important factors in improving plantation outcomes. The DDA said the newly appointed officers will oversee plantation sites and coordinate necessary maintenance measures. The agency has not provided a detailed timeline for evaluating the survival rate of the saplings, but officials indicated that continued monitoring would be carried out to ensure the plantation areas remain healthy.

The latest initiative reflects a shift towards a more structured approach to urban greening in Delhi. By assigning direct responsibility to officials, authorities aim to improve oversight and prevent newly planted saplings from being neglected after initial plantation events. With climate-related challenges becoming increasingly prominent in cities, Delhi’s plantation efforts are expected to play a role in strengthening urban resilience. The effectiveness of the programme will depend on sustained maintenance, monitoring and coordination between officials responsible for the planted sites.

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