16 trees to be given ‘heritage’ tag by Delhi government

The Delhi government in its unique campaign to save the greenery of the national Capital has decided to officially recognise its famous, old, historical trees as “natural heritage”.  

The concept is the brainchild of Cabinet minister Kapil Mishra, who holds interim charge of the Environment Ministry. According to a communiqué, “Delhi has historical monuments as its heritage, but now the city will also recognise its famous, old, historical trees as part of its heritage.” 

A list of 16 trees, belonging to the native species of Aravalli and NCR, will soon be notified as “protected”. Most of these trees lie in the South and New Delhi districts. 

These trees include Banyan — on the left as one enters FRRO, Bhikajikama Place; Ailanthus — in the western ruins of Tughlakabad; Mango — just north of Bara Gumbad, Lodhi Garden; Banyan — Due east of India Gate about 100m; Arjuna — at Raj Ghat Memorial; Ashok — at Raj Ghat Memorial; Neem — near Police Station and Teen Murti; Ailanthus — Nehru Park; Bargad — at the NSD near Mandi House; Salvadora — by the Qutub Mosque, near the minar.  Peepal — Burmese Mission, south of Qutub Minar; Banyan — Katwaria Sarai, Central Park; Semal — at the gardens of Teen Murti; Neem — Qadam Sharif Mosque, 

Arya Nagar; Pilkhan — near Deer Park in Hauz Khas Arts Village and Imli — above Hauz Khas Tank, are the trees that are to be included in the heritage list. Kapil Mishra said: “This city has seen continuous habitation since the 6th Century BC. It has been ruled by Lodhis, Khiljis, Tughlaqs and the British among others who built several temples and mosques. These are homes to ancient trees and we must give due respect to them.”  He also noted: “This is not the end of it. Suggestions from tree lovers and experts are welcome, and we will add them to the list.”