Supreme Court Hearing to Decide Fate of Fragile Aravalli Ecosystem

The Supreme Court will hear a critical case on the Aravalli hills on December 29. Environmentalists warn a government redefinition could open the ancient range to destructive mining. The hearing follows the court taking direct notice of the growing controversy. A vacation bench of three judges will oversee the proceedings.

This issue centers on a new official definition for the Aravalli range. According to reports from Reuters, the definition uses a 100-meter height criterion. Critics say this unscientific change was made without proper study or public input.

Court Halts New Mining Leases Pending Sustainable Plan

The Supreme Court has imposed an immediate hold on new mining leases in the Aravallis. This order will stand until a science-based management plan is ready. The government has announced a complete ban on granting new leases following the court’s decision.

The Ministry of Environment has tasked the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education with creating this plan. It must identify zones where mining should be permanently banned. The goal is a sustainable mining strategy for the entire region.

Environmentalists Decry “Unacceptable” Redefinition

Activists argue the new definition threatens a critical ecosystem. They state it could jeopardize water and climate security for millions. The Aravalli range acts as a natural barrier against desert expansion.

Neelam Ahluwalia of the Aravalli Virasat Jan Abhiyaan strongly opposes the move. She calls the height-based definition “completely unacceptable.” Ahluwalia asserts that sustainable mining in such a fragile ecosystem is a contradiction.

The upcoming Supreme Court hearing represents a pivotal moment for environmental protection in India. The decision will directly affect the preservation of the Aravalli mountain range. Its outcome will set a major precedent for how the nation balances development with ecological duty.

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What is the main issue with the Aravalli redefinition?

Environmentalists say the new 100-meter height definition is unscientific. They argue it was created without proper assessment. This could open protected areas to mining and cause ecological damage.

What has the Supreme Court ordered so far?

The court has put all new mining leases in the Aravallis on hold. This ban is temporary until a sustainable management plan is prepared. The government has echoed this order.

Who is preparing the sustainable mining plan?

The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) is tasked with the plan. They must use ecological and geological data. The plan will identify additional no-mining zones.

Why are the Aravalli hills so important?

The hills are an ancient mountain range critical for groundwater recharge. They prevent desertification and host rich biodiversity. Their health impacts millions of people’s water and food security.

When is the Supreme Court hearing?

The three-judge bench will hear the matter on December 29. This is a vacation bench hearing, underscoring the case’s urgency. The hearing follows the court’s own initiative to examine the issue.