Delhi’s MPD-2047 proposes 52km Yamuna cycling corridor and floodplain restoration

Close to 1,700 hectares of Yamuna floodplain could be protected, conserved and ecologically restored under Delhi’s Master Plan 2047, alongside a proposed 52-kilometre cycling corridor with walking trails, green stretches and organised recreation areas.

Lieutenant-Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the plan treats the Yamuna, Ridge, forests, biodiversity parks, water bodies, drains and neighbourhood parks as a connected green-blue network rather than isolated open spaces. It proposes intercepting and treating drains that empty into the Yamuna through upgraded sewage infrastructure, constructed wetlands and bioremediation.

The MPD-2047 framework also proposes restoring roughly 7,784 hectares of the Ridge with native species and scientific ecosystem management. Urban forests and green corridors are envisaged as measures to cool neighbourhoods, filter air and support native biodiversity, while revived wetlands and water bodies could help recharge groundwater and manage intense rainfall.

For Delhi’s built heritage, close to 1,500 assets are proposed to be covered by Cultural Resource Management Plans. The framework supports adaptive reuse of heritage buildings as museums, libraries, hotels, offices or cultural venues, while retaining their historic character.

The proposals do not set out a timeline for the restoration work, sewage upgrades or the cycling corridor.