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The Delhi High Court has expressed concern over the Centre's move to reclaim land occupied by the Indian Polo Association and the Delhi Gymkhana Club, observing that the capital cannot afford to lose its limited green spaces. Hearing a petition challenging an eviction notice, the court questioned the future use of the land and the impact on the city's environment and heritage structures. The matter centres on the proposed takeover of prominent properties in Lutyens' Delhi, with further proceedings expected before the trial court.
The Delhi High Court has questioned the Centre's proposal to reclaim land occupied by the Indian Polo Association and the Delhi Gymkhana Club, expressing concerns over the shrinking availability of green spaces in the national capital and their importance to the urban environment.
The observations came while the court was hearing a petition filed by the Indian Polo Association challenging an eviction notice issued by the government for the Jaipur Polo Ground located in the Race Course area of Lutyens' Delhi. The Centre has stated that the land is required for defence infrastructure and other public security purposes.
During the proceedings, the court questioned the intended use of the reclaimed land and sought clarity on the future of the heritage structures situated within the properties, including those at the Delhi Gymkhana Club. It also raised concerns about whether redevelopment could alter the character of one of the capital's prominent open spaces.
The court observed that Delhi is already grappling with severe air pollution and a shortage of open spaces, noting that the limited green areas within the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) zone play an important role in maintaining environmental balance. It remarked that any further reduction in such spaces could adversely affect the city's liveability.
Representing the Centre, government counsel argued that the land is needed for public and defence-related purposes and submitted that there is limited availability of space in central Delhi for essential government functions. The government maintained that the proposed use serves a public purpose.
Rather than deciding the merits of the eviction dispute, the High Court disposed of the petition and directed the trial court to consider the Indian Polo Association's request seeking a stay on the eviction notice. The matter is expected to proceed before the appropriate forum for further adjudication.
The case has drawn attention because it involves prominent institutions and large open tracts within Lutyens' Delhi, an area known for its low-density planning, heritage buildings and landscaped spaces. Urban planners have long argued that preserving such green areas is essential for environmental sustainability and maintaining the character of the capital's central district.
The outcome of the proceedings could have implications for the future use of these properties and the broader balance between infrastructure requirements, public land management and the preservation of heritage and open spaces in Delhi.
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