Delhi's historic polo club, a sprawling green expanse in the heart of the city, has become a battleground for the city's future, as conservationists and developers clash over its fate. The club, established in 1880, occupies 45 acres of prime land in the Lutyens' Delhi area, a zone known for its heritage buildings and tree-lined avenues. The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has proposed a plan to redevelop the site into a mixed-use complex, including luxury housing, commercial spaces, and a hotel, sparking outrage among environmentalists and heritage activists.
Conservationists Raise Alarms
According to the Delhi-based environmental group Save the Ridge, the polo club's grounds are home to over 200 trees, some of which are over a century old. The group argues that the redevelopment would lead to the felling of at least 150 trees, exacerbating the city's already critical air pollution levels. "This is not just about a polo club; it's about the last remaining lungs of central Delhi," said Ravi Agarwal, a spokesperson for the group. "We cannot allow this green space to be sacrificed for commercial interests."
Development Plans and Legal Challenges
The DDA's plan, unveiled in March 2026, proposes to construct a 30-story tower and several low-rise buildings, with an estimated investment of ₹1,200 crore (approximately $145 million). The project has received preliminary approval from the Delhi Urban Art Commission, but faces legal challenges from residents' welfare associations and heritage activists. A petition filed in the Delhi High Court in April 2026 argues that the redevelopment violates the city's master plan, which designates the area as a "green zone" with restrictions on construction.
Economic and Social Impacts
Proponents of the redevelopment, including the DDA and private developers, argue that the project will create thousands of jobs and boost the local economy. "This development will transform the area, providing modern amenities and much-needed housing for Delhi's growing population," said a DDA official who spoke on condition of anonymity. The project also promises to include a public park and a museum dedicated to the history of polo in India, which officials say will preserve the site's heritage.
Community Reactions and Protests
Local residents have organized protests, with over 1,000 people gathering outside the polo club in May 2026. The protests have drawn support from celebrities, including Bollywood actor Aamir Khan, who tweeted: "Delhi's green spaces are not for sale. Save the polo club." The club itself, which has been operating at a loss for years, has remained neutral, though its members are divided on the issue.
Broader Implications for Urban Development
The conflict over the polo club reflects a broader tension in Indian cities between development and conservation. Delhi, one of the world's most polluted cities, has lost over 30% of its green cover in the last two decades, according to a 2025 report by the Centre for Science and Environment. The fate of the polo club could set a precedent for other heritage and green spaces across the country. A decision from the Delhi High Court is expected later this year, with both sides preparing for a long legal battle.
