Delhi’s 2047 plan proposes 200km Ridge-Yamuna green connector and floodplain cycle network

A 200km Ridge-Yamuna Park Connector, with a 52km cycling network along the floodplain, is proposed in Delhi’s Master Plan 2047.

The network would link Ridge areas, parks and the Yamuna floodplain, while creating walking, cycling and passive-recreation spaces. Where feasible, the plan proposes public greenways 75 to 100 metres wide along the river’s embankments.

The proposals cover the 22km stretch between the Wazirabad and Okhla barrages. They include 13 restoration projects spanning around 1,700 hectares, aimed at reviving wetlands, natural depressions and floodplain ecosystems. Existing wetlands could be de-silted, while deeper natural depressions would serve as floodwater-storage basins. Floodplain forests, grasslands and a riverine vegetation buffer are also proposed.

The DDA is separately pursuing a phased Yamuna cycling corridor; its first phase is planned between the Old Railway Bridge and NH-24. The wider master plan has already mapped the floodplain into core and buffer zones.

Yamuna activist Diwan Singh said trails and other works must avoid construction that disrupts the floodplain’s natural hydrology or reduces its capacity to store floodwater.