Protecting The Aravallis: India Signals Tougher Action Against Unregulated Mining

New Delhi: The Central Government has clearly indicated that the areas where mining will be banned in the Aravalli Hills will now be identified more strictly than before and will also be expanded if necessary. There has been a debate going on regarding mining in Aravali for a long time. Recently, the Supreme Court had pointed towards a uniform definition regarding the identity of Aravali, after which this issue became more heated. People say that due to mining, mountains are breaking, water sources are decreasing, and greenery is disappearing. In view of these concerns, the Center itself has now taken charge.

Why is this step being taken now?

The government has said that it will get all parts of Aravali re-examined. For this, a national-level research institute has been entrusted with the work. This organization will see in which areas mining is already prohibited, at which places a ban is necessary, and what the situation is where mining is going on. After this, a new list will be prepared in which the mining-prohibited areas will be recorded in more detail and clearly than before. The government says that this step is necessary to allay the apprehensions of the people, because without a clear map, problems increase and disputes also arise.

Who will set new boundaries?

Along with this, instructions have also been given to the states that no new mining lease should be issued to anyone in Aravalli at this time. That means new approvals have been put on hold for the time being. No further permission will be granted until a complete review is completed. It is expected that the pressure on the environment will reduce a bit and the administration will get time to fix the rules.

What will happen to the old mining leases?

Where mining is already going on, it has now been said that more strict action will be taken against ignoring the rules. States have been asked to conduct regular inspections, implement measures to prevent dust and pollution, and immediately stop activities that harm water or land.

What is the bigger objective of this entire exercise?

The government's intention is said to be to save Aravali as a natural range. These hills extend from Gujarat to around Delhi and are very important for the climate, groundwater, and environment of North India. If steps are not taken in time, it may be difficult to recover the loss in the coming years. Therefore, this decision is being considered an important step towards providing relief to Aravali.