Environmental activists and concerned citizens in Rajasthan are raising their voices in a determined campaign to protect the ecologically fragile Aravalli hill range from rampant mining and deforestation. The movement, gaining momentum under the banner of 'Save Aravalli', highlights a critical environmental crisis unfolding in the region.
The Heart of the Protest: Irreversible Damage
The core message from environmentalists and experts is stark and unequivocal: once destroyed, the Aravalli hills cannot be restored to their original state. This ancient mountain range, one of the oldest in the world, acts as a crucial green barrier against the advancing desert and plays a vital role in groundwater recharge for the entire National Capital Region (NCR) and surrounding areas.
Protesters point to widespread illegal mining and stone crushing activities, particularly in districts like Alwar, as the primary threat. These operations are not only stripping the hills of their natural cover but are also causing severe air and water pollution, disrupting local wildlife, and depleting precious water resources. The activists argue that the short-term economic gains from mining are far outweighed by the long-term, irreversible ecological damage.
Legal Battles and Government Response
The issue has seen significant legal intervention. The Supreme Court of India has previously taken a strong stance, ordering the sealing of numerous illegal stone crushers in the Aravalli region. However, protesters claim that enforcement on the ground remains weak and that mining activities often resume under new guises or through legal loopholes.
They are demanding stricter action from the state government, including:
- A complete ban on fresh mining leases in the Aravalli region.
- Stringent monitoring and closure of all illegal mining and crushing units.
- Enhanced measures for the protection and regeneration of the existing forest cover.
- Clear demarcation of forest and non-forest land to prevent encroachment.
The movement is not just about stopping destruction but also about advocating for the recognition of the Aravallis' role in climate moderation and disaster prevention. The hills are seen as a natural shield against dust storms from the Thar Desert, and their degradation directly impacts air quality in cities like Delhi and Gurugram.
A Call for Collective Action
The 'Save Aravalli' campaign is mobilizing people from all walks of life, from local villagers whose livelihoods are tied to the land to urban dwellers concerned about water security and clean air. The protesters are using rallies, social media campaigns, and public petitions to amplify their message.
Their central plea is for a shift in perspective: to view the Aravalli range not as a source of stone and revenue but as an indispensable natural heritage and a life-support system for millions. The warning is clear—the damage being done today will have catastrophic consequences for future generations, and the time for decisive protective action is now.
As the protests grow louder, the spotlight is firmly on the Rajasthan government and regulatory authorities to implement existing laws with rigor and to consider the long-term environmental security of the region over immediate commercial interests. The fate of the Aravallis hangs in the balance, symbolizing a broader national challenge of balancing development with ecological preservation.
