Not only in Delhi but even Gurugram's green cover is getting adversely affected by the huge plantation of Kikar (Prosopis Julifora) in the city's Aravalli range as it prevents the growth of other trees and reduces groundwater levels.
The presence of Kikar in Aravallis is also affecting the fauna as it is leading animals like leopards and nilgais to venture into the human habitats.
The large scale plantation of Kikar or Babul were introduced by the British in the Aravalli's green belt of Rajasthan, southern Haryana and South West Delhi to replace the indigenous varieties and absorb a large number of dust particles that emanated from these areas.
Gurugram's Forest Division are in process of planting new species of trees like Prospis Cineria (Khejri), Senegalia Catechu (Khair), Cordia Dichotma (Lasoda) and Butea Monosperma (Palash).
However, the officials admit that planting amid a large number of new species of trees surrounded by Kikar is a challenge.
"In today's context, a large number of Kikar in Aravallis is not proving to be useful. At a time when parts of the city are having low groundwater reserves, Kikar is not proving to be useful in enhancing the groundwater reserves," said a senior official.
Recently, the Haryana government had passed an order that no permission will be required to cut Kikar tree but was revoked after it faced a barrage of criticism from the environmentalists.
"It is more important that the Government must devise ways by which news species of trees can survive in the green belt of Aravallis. However, the government is reducing the density of the forested area and in a way favouring the builders, "said S S Oberoi, an environmentalist.