Aravalli Hills: Calls for Greater Public Participation in Environmental Hearings
Context
Civil rights and environmental organisations have called for more transparent, inclusive and meaningful public participation in hearings related to the Aravalli hill range. The hearings are being conducted in connection with a Supreme Court-appointed committee examining the definition, delineation and environmental significance of the Aravallis.
Key Highlights
- A Supreme Court appointed committee is visiting areas across Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan to assess the Aravalli region and prepare its report.
- The committee is examining the Centre’s report concerning the definition and delineation of the Aravalli hills, including areas where ambiguity exists.
- Rights groups have raised concerns that some public hearings were held with inadequate notice and limited participation of local communities.
- Meaningful public participation is important because decisions concerning ecologically sensitive regions directly affect local livelihoods, land use and environmental security.
- The Aravalli Range plays a crucial ecological role by supporting groundwater recharge, biodiversity and soil conservation, while also influencing the regional climate and environment.
Key Concepts
- Aravalli Range: One of India’s oldest fold mountain systems, extending broadly from Delhi through Haryana and Rajasthan towards Gujarat. It has major ecological significance for groundwater, biodiversity, soil conservation and regional climate regulation.
- Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA): An area requiring enhanced environmental protection because of its ecological importance, fragility or vulnerability to degradation.
Environmental Significance of the Aravallis
The Aravallis act as an important ecological barrier in north western India and help check desertification and soil erosion. Their forests and rocky terrain support diverse flora and fauna, while the range also contributes to groundwater recharge and watershed protection.
Way Forward
- Ensure adequate notice and meaningful participation of affected communities in environmental hearings.
- Improve transparency in the mapping and delineation of ecologically sensitive areas.
- Use scientific and geospatial data for identifying and protecting the Aravalli ecosystem.
- Integrate conservation objectives with sustainable development and land-use planning.
- Strengthen community participation in the long-term protection and restoration of the Aravalli landscape.