New Delhi : In a significant move to protect the Aravalli Range, which stretches from Delhi to Gujarat, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) has directed all states to stop granting new mining leases in the region.
Protecting the Aravallis
The ban applies uniformly across the entire Aravalli landscape, aiming to preserve the integrity of this ancient geological ridge and curb unregulated mining activities. The ministry emphasized that the Aravallis play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance across the National Capital Region and western India.
Role of ICFRE
The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) has been tasked with identifying additional zones where mining should be prohibited, beyond the areas already restricted by the Centre.
- ICFRE will prepare a science-based Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) for the entire Aravalli region.
- The plan will assess cumulative environmental impacts, ecological carrying capacity, and conservation-critical zones.
- It will also recommend measures for restoration and rehabilitation of degraded areas.
- Once prepared, the plan will be placed in the public domain for stakeholder consultation.
Regulation of Existing Mines
For mines already in operation, the Centre has directed state governments to:
- Ensure strict compliance with environmental safeguards.
- Adhere to the Supreme Court’s orders on mining in the Aravallis.
- Impose additional restrictions to regulate ongoing activities and enforce sustainable practices.
Ecological Significance
The government highlighted the critical role of the Aravalli ecosystem in:
- Preventing desertification.
- Conserving biodiversity.
- Recharging groundwater aquifers.
- Providing essential environmental services to the region.
This step is part of India’s long-term commitment to safeguarding fragile ecosystems and ensuring sustainable development.
