In a significant move to safeguard the environmentally sensitive Yamuna floodplain in Delhi, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has initiated a steel fencing and signage revamp along an 11-kilometre stretch from Wazirabad Barrage to ITO Barrage. The ₹18 crore project is aimed at curbing illegal encroachments, improving public awareness, and ensuring long-term protection of restored green zones along the riverbanks.
The fencing will act as a physical barrier to restrict unauthorized access and dumping along the floodplain, a region that has faced mounting ecological stress due to urban sprawl and pollution. In addition to fencing, the project will include installation of informative and cautionary signage to guide the public and promote responsible use of the riverfront areas.
Officials noted that this initiative is part of the broader Yamuna Riverfront Development Plan, which seeks to revive the floodplain’s ecological health, enhance biodiversity, and promote sustainable urban land use. The steel fencing infrastructure, though not conventionally associated with industrial projects, plays a crucial role in creating resilient urban systems and preserving public ecological assets.
“The objective is to create a green buffer zone that is protected from further encroachments while also being accessible and educational for residents. Steel fencing was chosen for its durability, ease of maintenance, and long-term cost efficiency,” a senior DDA official said.
This development aligns with Delhi’s larger vision to integrate green infrastructure into the city’s planning process and reduce environmental degradation in critical zones. Experts believe such protective infrastructure can set a precedent for river conservation efforts in other major Indian cities.
