Aravalli mountain range controversy

Why in news?

Supreme Court’s new definition: The Court recently ruled that only landforms in Aravalli districts with an elevation of 100 meters or more count as part of the Aravalli hills. This narrows protection and potentially opens large areas to mining and construction.
Ecological concerns: Environmentalists warn this could cause irreversible damage to one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, which acts as a natural barrier against desertification, dust storms, and pollution in NCR and North India.

Mining Controversy

Opposition and activists fear the new definition could open doors for mining expansion, especially in Rajasthan and Haryana.
Govt clarified: only 0.19% of Aravalli’s 1.44 lakh sq km area is eligible for mining, with strict restrictions.

Ecological Importance

Aravalli is ~2 billion years old, stretching 650–800 km across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.
Acts as a barrier against Thar Desert expansion, supports groundwater recharge, and houses rich biodiversity.
Source of rivers like Sabarmati, Luni, Chambal

Government’s Defence
The Centre has strongly countered fears, presenting several arguments:

Government Defence	Details
Clarity, not dilution	The new definition removes decades of ambiguity and standardizes protection across states.
Freeze on mining leases	Supreme Court has paused fresh mining leases until a comprehensive management plan is finalized.
Extent of protection	Govt claims over 90% of Aravalli region remains protected, with mining allowed only in 0.19% of the 1.44 lakh sq km area.
Barrier against desertification	Aravallis act as a natural shield against desert dust entering Delhi and North India, so protection is vital.
Expansion of coverage	Officials argue the ruling expands boundaries by covering entire hill systems, not just isolated peaks.

Risks & Challenges

Mining expansion: Reduced protection may accelerate quarrying, harming fragile ecosystems.
Urban pollution: NCR already struggles with air quality; weakening Aravalli’s shield could worsen smog and dust storms.
Water security: Aravalli forests recharge groundwater; deforestation could deepen water crises.
Legal loopholes: Developers may exploit the new definition to push construction projects.

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