Aravalli Hills and Mining Regulations
The recent acceptance by the Supreme Court of a new definition for the Aravalli hills has sparked protests and criticism. This definition was recommended by a Centre-led panel, prompting concerns about potential impacts on mining regulations.
Government Stance and Clarifications
- Union Environment Minister clarified that the new definition does not grant relaxation for mining.
- The total Aravalli range is approximately 1.47 lakh square km, with only 2% of it eligible for mining under stringent conditions.
- The Supreme Court has mandated the preparation of a sustainable mining plan, similar to the one in Saranda, Jharkhand.
- No mining permissions will be granted in Delhi and more than 20 reserve forests and protected areas in Aravallis will remain protected.
New Definition of Aravalli Hills
- The new definition considers any landform with an elevation of 100m or more above the local relief as part of the Aravalli Hills.
- This definition leaves more than 90% of the range outside the Aravalli umbrella, raising concerns about environmental vulnerability.
- The height of 100m will be measured from the base, and mining will not be allowed around or beneath the hill's structure.
- The range is defined as the extent of 500m between two or more hills, purportedly protecting over 90% of the Aravallis.
Protests and Responses
- The definition has triggered protests, especially in Rajasthan, which accounts for nearly two-thirds of the range.
- A silent demonstration took place outside the Haryana Environment Minister's residence.
Supreme Court's Directives
- An interim ban on new mining leases has been accepted, except for critical and atomic minerals for strategic purposes.
- The Court directed the preparation of a management plan for sustainable mining for the entire Aravallis.
- This will involve identifying permissible areas for mining, and strictly prohibiting or permitting mining in ecologically sensitive areas only under exceptional circumstances.
- It will also require studying cumulative environmental impacts and detailing post-mining restoration measures.
