Supreme Court Defines Aravalli Range, Ensuring 90 Percent Protection from Mining

The Supreme Court has accepted a new definition for the Aravalli hills. This decision came on November 20th. It aims to balance conservation with regulated resource use.

New Delhi, May 01 (ANI): A view of the Supreme Court of India complex at the backdrop of an overcast sky, in New Delhi on Monday. (ANI Photo/Ayush Sharma)

The central government insists nearly 90% of the range will stay protected. This clarification follows public concern over potential ecological damage.

Government Clarifies “100-Metre” Definition Amid Protests

Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav addressed the controversy directly. He stated misinformation was being spread about the court’s order. According to ANI, Yadav said the definition covers the hill’s full spread.

The “100-metre” term refers to a landform’s elevation above its local relief. It is not just the top portion of a hill. A collection of such hills within 500 metres forms an “Aravalli Range”.

This new classification sparked protests from Gurugram to Udaipur. Environmentalists feared it could weaken protections for the ancient mountain range. The range spans Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

Mining to Remain Tightly Regulated in Limited Zones

Officials stress mining will be minimal and tightly controlled. The total Aravalli landscape covers about 1.47 lakh square kilometres. Only around 217 square kilometres is even eligible for potential mining.

That represents less than 2% of the total area. The Supreme Court has mandated a strict Management Plan for Sustainable Mining. All activities require further approval from forestry experts.

According to the government, all existing protected areas and forest reserves remain untouched. Mining in the Delhi Aravalli is completely prohibited. The Centre states a “false narrative” of relaxed rules is being created.

The Supreme Court’s order provides a legal framework for the Aravalli range. It ensures the vast majority of this crucial ecosystem remains shielded from development. The focus now shifts to implementing the sustainable mining plan with strict oversight.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Does the new definition reduce Aravalli protection?

No. The government states the definition actually ensures about 90% of the Aravalli landscape falls within a protected zone. The clarification aims to provide a consistent legal standard across four states.

Q2: How much mining will now be allowed?

Officials say only about 2% of the total Aravalli area is even eligible for consideration. Any mining there will require a sustainable management plan and expert approval, as directed by the Supreme Court.

Q3: What was the public reaction to this decision?

Environmental activists protested, fearing the definition change could harm the ecologically sensitive range. Protests occurred in several cities across Haryana and Rajasthan following the Supreme Court’s November order.

Q4: What is the “100-metre” definition exactly?

It defines an “Aravalli Hill” as any landform in designated districts with an elevation of 100 metres or more above its local surroundings. Two or more such hills within 500 metres form an “Aravalli Range”.

Q5: Who will regulate any future mining activity?

The Supreme Court directed the environment ministry to prepare a detailed sustainable mining plan. Following that, the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) must grant permission before any activity begins.