From Barren Scars to Thriving Sanctuary: The Delhi Eco-Task Force's Inspiring Story of Environmental Restoration

132 TA & Delhi Government,

Image Source: 132 ECO TA

2010-11 Update: Writer was than Major and was serving with 133 TA and rasied a ECO TAsk Force Company In Himachal Pradesh

Source Commanding Officer of 2010.

A desolate landscape – once teeming with life, become a marred by abandoned mines and degraded soil. This was the fate of the Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary in Delhi's southern ridge. But in 2000, a beacon of hope emerged – the 132 Eco Task Force, a collaboration between the Delhi Government, the Territorial Army (TA), and the Centre for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems (CEMDE) at Delhi University.

Their mission? 

To transform 2100 acres of this ravaged land into a flourishing ecosystem.

This wasn't just about planting trees. The Eco Task Force, led by the dedicated Eco Rajput battalion of the TA, had a multi-pronged approach:

• Afforestation & Grassland Development: By planting native tree species and promoting grassland growth, they aimed to reclaim the degraded land and create a habitat for wildlife.

• Wildlife Sanctuary Restoration: Their efforts focused on restoring the natural habitat for indigenous fauna, ensuring the sanctuary buzzed with life once more.

• Groundwater Recharge: Replanting vegetation plays a crucial role in reviving groundwater levels, a vital resource for Delhi's growing population.

• Soil Improvement: Years of mining had left the soil infertile. The Eco Task Force worked tirelessly to restore its fertility, creating a foundation for a healthy ecosystem.

• Environmental Beauty & Recreation: A thriving sanctuary not only benefits wildlife but also provides a much-needed green space for Delhiites to connect with nature.

• Biodiversity Boost: The project aimed to increase Delhi's biodiversity, enriching the Aravali ecosystem and promoting a healthy balance.

This wasn't a quick fix. It's been a journey of over two decades, with the Eco Task Force diligently planting trees, sowing seeds, and meticulously nurturing the land. Their efforts have yielded remarkable results:

• Habitat Improvement: The sanctuary is now a haven for wildlife, showcasing the power of environmental restoration.

• Increased Forest Cover: Delhi's precious green cover has grown significantly, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Eco Task Force.

• Natural Defense Against Desertification: The restored forest acts as a natural barrier, protecting Delhi from the encroachment of deserts from the west.

But their impact goes beyond statistics. The Eco Task Force's presence has significantly reduced biotic interference (human activity that disrupts the ecosystem) and illegal mining.

Their story is a testament to the power of collaboration, dedication, and a commitment to environmental well-being. It serves as an inspiration for all of us. We can all play a part, whether it's planting a tree in our backyard, volunteering with environmental organizations, or simply making conscious choices that reduce our impact on the planet.

Let's learn from the Eco Task Force and become stewards of our environment. Together, we can create a greener, healthier future for ourselves and generations to come.

During 2000 - 2001, the Government of Delhi sanctioned a project of rehabilitation of 2100 Acres of degraded Bhati Sanctuary through the Eco-Task force of Territorial Army and Center for Environmental Management of Degraded Ecosystems of Delhi University. The objectives of the project are - reclaimation of degraded Bhati area through afforestation & grassland development, restoration of habitat for indigenous wildlife and other faunal species, improvement of ground water regime, improvement of soil quality and fertility in the area, addition to the recreation & bio-aesthetic value of the sanctuary and improvement in bio-diversity of Aravali ecosystem. This project is still continuing in five years . This would improve the habitat of the Wildlife Sanctuary, increase forest cover of Delhi and also act as shelterbelt to check the advancing desert from the western part of Delhi. Saplings have been planted and seeds of various indigenous tree species have been sown at various locations by the Territorial Army and their presence has ? the biotic interferance and illegal mining to a great extent

Eco-restoration of Degraded Bhatti Mines through Eco-Task Force: The Department has undertaken a project for Eco- rehabilitation of 2100 acres of degraded and abandoned Bhatti Mines in the southern ridge (Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary) w.e.f. October, 2000 through 132 Infantry Batallion (TA) ECO Rajput (Eco- Task Force). The Task Force had successfully protected the forest land from encroachment and illegal mining in the area temporarily handed over to them. Over passage of time, the Gaon Sabha lands of Dera Mandi were also handed over by the Govt. to ETF for raising plantations. The year-wise details of the plantation raised by ETF w.e.f. 2001 onwards are as under:

Sr. No.	Year	Area (in Acres)	Plantation Raised
1	2001-02	300	58800
2	2002-03	600	92600
3	2003-04	400	150000
4	2004-05	400	128000
5	2005-06	400	130000
6	2006-07	400	140000
7	2007-08	400	171000
8	2008-09	427	141703
9	2009-10	429	104632*

Source: Commanding Officer – 132 Inf. Bn. (TA), ECO Rajput (ETF) 2010-11 & DELHI GOVERMENT WEB SITE

Office address of Both Government Bodies working together are as under :-

132 Inf BN (TA) Ecological Rajput

Bhati Mine Area, Delhi.

Office of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests,

Department of Forests and Wildlife,

Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi,

A-Block, 2nd Floor, Vikas Bhawan, I.P. Estate,

New Delhi-110002

•  +91-11-23370679

•  +91-11-23378513

•  pccf[dash]gnctd[at]delhi[dot]gov[dot]in
  

Joining Hands for a Greener Tomorrow: Eco Task Forces, Local NGOs & You!

This inspiring story is just one example of the incredible work undertaken by India's 10 Eco Task Forces of the Territorial Army. Our co-writer, a serving officer in the Indian Army, is passionate about raising awareness for these environmental heroes.

• Here at Greenify Earth, we share that passion. We'll be keeping you updated on the latest environmental news related to the Eco Task Forces, as well as opportunities for volunteering with NGOs, groups, and organizations working alongside them. Let's join forces – readers, Eco Task Forces, and environmental organizations across India. Together, we can create a greener, healthier future for our nation and the world, ensuring a better tomorrow for generations to come. Follow us and stay tuned for inspiring stories, actionable tips, and opportunities to get involved. Let's make a difference, one seed at a time!

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