Delhi’s Forests Charge Ahead-Electric Vehicles Redefine Conservation

Image Source: The Economic Times

In a historic step towards curbing pollution and conserving wildlife, the government of Delhi has instructed the Forest Department to replace all diesel and internal combustion engine vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs) within 60 days. The order, issued by Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, is part of an ambitious green policy to make forest areas cleaner, quieter, and safer throughout the capital.

Key Highlights:

Immediate Diesel Ban: Effective immediately, all non-essential, non-electric vehicles-both government and private-are banned from entering Delhi’s forests and protected areas. Only essential service vehicles, such as water tankers, are exempt.
Full EV Transition: The Forest Department must replace its entire fleet of diesel and petrol vehicles with EVs in the next two months. A detailed transition plan is to be submitted within seven days.
Wildlife Conservation Priority: The move is a result of observations of wildlife distress resulting from vehicle emissions and noise, particularly after a viral video filmed a leopard getting agitated due to a passing tractor in Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
Citywide Impact: The shift affects all 26 protected forest areas in Delhi, including the large Ridge and Asola Bhatti Sanctuary. E-golf carts and e-cycles for tourists are planned to be introduced, with charging points to be installed within six months.
Green Budget Boost: The Delhi government has set aside ₹506 crore for environmental monitoring, pollution abatement, and conservation of biodiversity in the 2025-26 budget. A massive initiative to plant 7 million saplings across the city is also being undertaken.
Vision for the Future: Officials highlight this as a mindset change towards sustainable urban life, with an aim to make Delhi a model for environmental management and clean mobility.