‘Take Back New Aravalli Definition, Recall SC Ruling’: Environmentalist Warns of Ecological Fallout
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New Delhi, December 27 :
Environmentalist Neelam Ahluwalia has urged the Supreme Court to recall its November 20 order approving a new definition of the Aravalli mountain range. She warned that the move could seriously damage one of India’s most fragile ecosystems.
Ahluwalia is a member of the Aravalli Virasat Jan Abhiyaan, a collective opposing the revised definition. She said the Centre should withdraw the notification immediately.
Height-Based Definition Raises Alarm
Speaking to ANI, Ahluwalia said the new definition relies on a 100-metre height criterion. She claimed it was introduced without proper scientific study or public consultation.
According to her, the definition could open large parts of the Aravallis in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat to mining activity.
She said applying a uniform height-based rule to an ancient mountain system was dangerous.
‘No Such Thing as Sustainable Mining in Aravallis’
Ahluwalia strongly criticised the concept of “sustainable mining” in the Aravalli range.
“There is nothing called sustainable mining in a critical mountain ecosystem like the Aravallis,” she said.
She added that redefining the range would threaten water security, food systems, and climate stability for millions of people.
Opposition to Supreme Court Order Grows
The Supreme Court’s acceptance of the Centre’s definition has drawn criticism from environmental groups and opposition parties. Critics allege the move could benefit mining interests.
Ahluwalia said multiple grassroots organisations have united to oppose the ruling.
Lack of Data and Transparency Questioned
She questioned the government’s claim that only two per cent of the Aravalli area would be affected.
According to her, no verified data has been made public. She also flagged contradictions in official statements regarding the number of districts covered under the Aravalli belt.
Environmental Impact Assessment Still Pending
Ahluwalia pointed out that the Centrally Empowered Committee (CEC) had recommended a comprehensive environmental impact assessment in March 2024.
She said that assessment has not been conducted so far.
“Before redefining the Aravallis, a cumulative social and environmental impact study should have been done,” she said.
Mining Already Causing Severe Damage
Citing ground reports, Ahluwalia said mining is already active in 37 districts across the Aravalli region.
She claimed both legal and illegal mining have caused:
- Deforestation
- Groundwater depletion
- River pollution
- Health problems in local communities
She warned that the new definition could worsen the situation.
Redefinition Could Affect Land and Forest Rights
Ahluwalia also rejected the government’s claim that the new definition applies only to mining.
She said redefining the Aravallis would impact land use, forest protection, conservation laws, and people’s rights.
Demand for Recall and Public Consultation
The campaign has demanded:
- An immediate halt to mining near forests, water bodies, and villages
- Transparent data on protected areas
- Comparison between old Forest Survey of India criteria and the new definition
“Until an independent assessment is done and people are consulted, this order must be recalled,” Ahluwalia said.
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