The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, is currently at the heart of growing protests in India. This ancient geological formation, stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat, is facing severe environmental degradation due to illegal mining, encroachment, and unsustainable development projects.
Environmental activists, local communities, and concerned citizens are raising their voices against the rampant destruction of the Aravallis. The protests highlight the crucial ecological role the range plays, acting as a natural barrier against the Thar Desert’s expansion, recharging groundwater, and providing a critical green lung for the National Capital Region. The loss of the Aravalli forests also threatens the diverse flora and fauna that call the region home.
Despite various court orders and environmental regulations aimed at protecting the Aravallis, enforcement remains a significant challenge. Activists argue that powerful mining lobbies and real estate developers often bypass these regulations, leading to irreversible damage. The depletion of the hills has led to a decrease in water tables, increased air pollution, and a loss of biodiversity, directly impacting the livelihoods and health of local populations.
The ongoing protests are a desperate plea to preserve this vital ecological heritage. They call for stricter implementation of environmental laws, an end to illegal activities, and a more sustainable approach to development in the region. The future of the Aravallis, and the environmental well-being of a large part of northern India, now hinges on the outcome of these growing movements.
