New Delhi: Delhi forest department has withdrawn a tender for carrying out an anti-termite treatment in Central Ridge, where it is developing theme-based plantations, using toxic chemicals like chlorpyriphos and lindane.TOI had reported on April 18 that the tender had been floated and the use of such chemicals in the soil could kill beneficial microbes and fungi, disrupt the ecological balance and pose risks to the health of animals, birds and humans.In a ‘Corrigendum’ issued on the same day, the forest department said, “In continuation of the tender floated on the e-procurement portal dated 11.03.2026 regarding development of special vans (forests) – Tirthankara, Ritu, Rashi, and Panchvati – in Central Ridge under West Forest Division, it is hereinby informed that the…. ‘supply and spreading of good quality anti-termite (chlorpyriphos 20% EC/lindane 20% EC) free from impurities to all tree saplings (5 ml per plant one time)’ stands withdrawn and shall not be applicable.”It added that no anti-termite treatment will be carried out. “Strictly no use of chlorpyriphos or lindane is permitted. The work shall be executed following eco-friendly and sustainable forestry practices without the use of any toxic chemical pesticides,” the department said.Citing experts, the TOI The report had stated that the use of anti-termite treatment is not advisable for ecological restoration of the Ridge, which is the green lungs of the city. They said such a method is recommended for campuses and in gardens, not natural forests.A chapter on the ecological impacts of termites in the book, ‘Termites and Sustainable Management’, states that tropical termites may consume up to half of the annual litter production. “During their feeding and nesting activities, termites improve soil aeration, enhance absorption and storage of water in soils, and facilitate carbon fluxes and storage. These processes are crucial for long-term soil fertility, plant growth and soil formation,” it notes.
