Saving Aravalli Hills: Centre issues directions to States on complete ban on issuing new mining leases

New Delhi : In a much-required step to protect and safeguard Aravallis, Centre has issued directions to the States on issuing new leases for mining on the Aravalli Hills. This comes after a strong opposition was seen from the people across the nation over the 100-mt rule of defining the Aravalli range, which is spread between Delhi to Gujarat.

The Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry said in a statement that this prohibition applies uniformly across the entire Aravalli landscape and is intended to preserve the integrity of the range.

The Ministry has also directed the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify additional areas and zones in the entire Aravallis, where mining should be prohibited. This is over and above the already prohibited areas for mining on the hills.

The Centre has directed State Governments to ensure that mines already in operation strictly comply with all environmental safeguards, in line with the Supreme Court’s directions. Ongoing mining activities will be regulated rigorously, with enhanced restrictions to safeguard the environment and uphold sustainable mining practices.

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to the long-term protection of the Aravalli ecosystem, recognising its vital role in preventing desertification, conserving biodiversity, recharging aquifers, and providing essential environmental services to the region.