Environmentalists Sound Alarm in Gurgaon Over Aravalli Threats
Environmental activists organized a significant awareness gathering in Gurgaon on Saturday. They demanded an immediate stop to all mining and construction activities across the Aravalli mountain ranges. The event took place at the Rajiv Gandhi Renewable Energy Park in Sector 29.
A Silent Call for Action
The gathering was not a protest but a silent, reflective session. Organizers from the Aravalli Bachao Citizens Movement planned it this way. More than fifty people participated, including schoolchildren. They highlighted the crucial roles the Aravallis play across several states.
The mountain ranges provide clean air, groundwater recharge, climate regulation, forest corridors, and biodiversity support. These benefits extend to Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Warnings of Dire Consequences
Climate activist Sangeeta Nayyar stressed the urgent need for clean air and water. She pointed to high AQI levels and widespread reliance on air purifiers. "We have to save the Aravallis now, else we are in deep trouble," she stated firmly.
Jyoti Raghavan, a former trustee, referenced a 2018 proposal to amend the Punjab Land Preservation Act. This amendment could have allowed construction on one-third of the range. She described recent developments around the definition of Aravalli hills as a major concern.
"The new definition will mean the mother of all threats. Even with the abeyance threat still there to the Aravallis, January feels like June," Raghavan warned. She noted visible environmental changes like sand dust in cities and declining groundwater levels.
Participants Voice Their Concerns
Sanjay Lal framed the issue as a matter of survival, not mere activism. He explained that the Aravallis act as a climate shield, heat barrier, and natural purifier. He criticized authorities for overlooking these vital functions.
Other participants issued stark warnings:
- Potential desertification without adequate protection
- Suggestions to declare the range a UNESCO heritage site
- Calls for persistent legal and collective efforts
RTI activist Harinder Dhingra emphasized continuous protection efforts. Conservationist Sunil Harsana questioned government inconsistencies. He noted official statements support protection while threats continue unabated.
A Collective Pledge and Direct Appeal
The gathering concluded with a unified pledge. Participants vowed to stop all mining and construction across the Aravalli biosphere until AQI reaches 50. Environmentalist Vaishali Rana led children in chanting "Aravalli ki loot, nahi chalegi."
Participants signed a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The letter cited CAG reports from 2017 and 2022 about illegal mining in Haryana's Aravalli biosphere. It highlighted violations of Supreme Court judgments and enforcement failures.
The letter referenced a December 2025 sting operation showing alleged illegal operations and bribery attempts. It demanded an immediate, absolute ban on mining and construction. The ban should continue until restoration to the range's 1925 status, involving independent experts.
Legal Context and Supreme Court Involvement
The Supreme Court's December 29, 2025 order stayed its previous judgment on the Aravalli definition. The court directed formation of a high-powered expert committee to review the issue. Concerns existed that earlier criteria could reduce protected areas and allow more mining.
The court also maintained a freeze on new mining leases. This freeze continues pending a sustainable mining plan. The legal battle highlights the ongoing struggle to protect these critical mountain ranges.
The environmentalists' message is clear. Protecting the Aravallis is essential for preventing extreme weather, maintaining biodiversity, and ensuring sustainable development across northern India.
