Delhi to Start Tree Census After 30 Years: New Technology and 2.9 Crore Budget Approved

Delhi is preparing for its first comprehensive tree census in over three decades. The central government has approved an initial budget of 2.9 crore for this massive project. This is the first time since the Delhi Preservation of Trees Act was implemented in 1994 that the capital will have a full record of its greenery. The counting process will primarily cover non-forest areas across the city in a phased manner.

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Advanced Technology and Methods for the Census

The authorities plan to use high-end technology to ensure that the data collected is both accurate and real-time. Instead of just traditional manual counting, the census will utilize specialized tools to categorise trees based on their health and age. The Delhi Tree Authority (DTA) has also proposed using drones for constant monitoring of the green cover.

• LiDAR and GIS: These systems will map tree locations and measure density effectively.
• Drone Surveys: Used for real-time monitoring and aerial data collection.
• Manual Counting: Teams will manually count trees in areas where the canopy is too dense for drones.
• Detailed Categorization: Every tree will be classified by species, height, girth, age, and overall health.

Timeline and Budgetary Allocation

The Forest Research Institute (FRI) in Dehradun will monitor the entire census, which is expected to be completed over the next four years. Scientists from FRI are expected to start the primary work in three to four months, while a pilot project will begin in parts of Central and South Delhi within the next two weeks.

The Supreme Court directed the tree census in 2024 to ensure the city maintains its environmental standards. This project follows the announcement of a 22,236 crore Green Budget by the Delhi government, which focuses on making the environment the center of its fiscal policy.