ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESMENT OF DELHI METRO IN PHASE 3

Abstract

Delhi is known to be inhabited since 6th century BC. Delhi is also widely believed to have been the legendary capital of the Pandavas. Delhi has a strong historical background owing to the fact that it was ruled over by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history. The history of city dates back to the time of Mahabharata when it was known as Indraprastha. The other kings occupied and developed cities like Lalkot, Siri, Dinpanah, Quila Rai Pithora, Ferozabad, Jahanpanah, Tughlakabad and Sahajahanabad. The present city of Delhi was founded in 17th century by Mughal Emperor Shahajahan with about one lakh population. This area is now know as old Delhi. In the year 1857 the city came under Brithish rule. British shifted their capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911. It is the city of many ancient and medieval monuments and archaeological structures.

The National Capital Region (NCR) in India is a name for the conurbation or metropolitan area which encompasses the entire National Capital Territory of Delhi as well as urban areas ringing it in neighbouring states of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The National Capital Territory of Delhi lies central to the National Capital Region. It includes the city of Delhi and New Delhi. This region has largest concentration of population in whole of the NCR.

Delhi, the capital of India is the largest metropolis by area and the second-largest metropolis by population in India. It is the eighth largest metropolis in the world by population. According to 2001 census, the population of Delhi, as on 1st March, 2001, was worked out at 13.85 millions as against 9.42 millions on 1st March, 1991. The corresponding percentage at All-India level has been worked out at 21.34%. Population [1].duringyears 1901 to 1911 the decennial growth of Delhi was 11.13%. And it increases to 106.58% in 1941-1951. Thereon it steadily decreased. The decennial growth reduces to 46.87% in 1981-1991. However in 1991-2001 decennial growth rises to 52.34%.