The Aravalli Mountain Range: Ecological and Legal Challenges
The Aravalli mountain range, an ancient geological formation older than the Himalayas, is facing significant ecological and legal threats due to intensive quarrying and mining activities, especially in Rajasthan and Haryana. Urban expansion in the National Capital Region further exacerbates the problem.
Supreme Court Intervention
- The Supreme Court halted an order that identified the mountains based on height, which threatened to remove legal protections.
- Over 1,200 active mining leases are currently affecting the Aravalli hills.
Learning from Aldo Leopold
The ecologist Aldo Leopold's concept of "think like a mountain" in A Sand County Almanac serves as a metaphor for understanding ecosystem interdependence.
- Leopold's observation on the impact of hunting wolves demonstrates that removing a species can lead to ecological imbalance and degradation.
Environmental Impact
- The Aravallis influence the monsoon, halt the Thar Desert's eastward drift, recharge aquifers, and serve as biological corridors.
- Mining disrupts natural drainage, uproots forests, and affects food webs.
Flawed Policy Approaches
Policies defining hills by a 100-meter height threshold overlook ecological factors, exposing low ridges to quarrying risks.
- The Supreme Court has mandated a new study to reassess the Aravalli's ecological significance.
- Long-term policies should focus on sustainable mining and the entire Aravalli ecosystem's integrity.
Conclusion
Adopting a mountain's perspective could prevent ecological degradation, ensuring long-term environmental health and stability for India's biodiverse regions.
