Aravalli Range Faces Growing Environmental Risk

The Aravalli Mountain Range, one of Earth’s oldest formations at around 2.5 billion years old, is suddenly back in public focus. Stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat, it acts like a natural wall that prevents the Thar Desert from advancing eastward, while also serving as vital "green lungs" for Delhi-NCR and surrounding regions.

What Triggered the Discussion on X

Recently, the Supreme Court applied a narrower definition of the Aravalli Range to multiple states. Under this change, only hills taller than 100 meters qualify as part of the protected Aravalli ecosystem. This shift sparked a surge of concern across X, with users analyzing potential loopholes that could allow mining mafias and builders to legally exploit lower hills.

Key Patterns or Common Reactions Observed

Analysis of dozens of posts revealed three main trends:

1. Widespread environmental concern: Users emphasized desertification, loss of biodiversity, and worsening air quality in urban centers like Delhi-NCR.
2. Distrust in enforcement: Many posts expressed skepticism that government protections will stop illegal mining, citing past incidents in Rajasthan where entire hills were flattened.
3. Calls for broader protection: Discussions often suggested redefining the Aravalli Range inclusively, without height-based loopholes, to safeguard ecosystems.

The conversation also evolved over time. Initially, attention was on Supreme Court rulings, but over the week, focus shifted toward ecological consequences and the interplay of politics and business interests in land exploitation.

Why This Trend Matters Right Now

The issue is critical because urbanization around Delhi, Gurgaon, and nearby regions is expanding rapidly. The Aravalli Range not only protects against desertification but also regulates local climate and air quality. Weakening protections now could have long-term consequences for millions of residents and ecosystems that depend on this ancient natural barrier.

What Could Happen Next

If enforcement remains lax and the current definition is applied strictly by height, lower hills may be mined, fragmenting the range. Conversely, public pressure and media scrutiny could push authorities to adopt a broader, more ecologically sensitive definition. Expect local environmental activism and policy discussions to intensify in the coming months, potentially influencing national environmental regulations.

Conclusion

The Aravalli Range controversy highlights the tension between legal definitions, urban expansion, and environmental protection. How India chooses to protect this 2.5 billion-year-old natural wall will shape climate resilience and biodiversity in the region for generations.

FAQs

1. Why is the Aravalli Range important for Delhi-NCR?
   It prevents desertification from the Thar Desert and maintains air quality and local climate.
2. What does the new Supreme Court definition change?
   Only hills taller than 100 meters are considered part of the protected Aravalli ecosystem, leaving shorter hills vulnerable to mining.
3. Could mining affect human settlements?
   Yes, if lower hills are mined, increased desertification, dust, and ecological imbalance could impact cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, and Faridabad.
4. How old is the Aravalli Range?
   Approximately 2.5 billion years old, making it one of the oldest mountain ranges on Earth.
5. What actions can protect the Aravalli Range?
   Broader legal definitions, stricter enforcement, and active environmental monitoring can help safeguard the range.