At the centre of the dispute is a proposed redefinition of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range, which activists warn could allow swathes of the hills to be opened up for mining and construction.
India’s Supreme Court is set to hear a closely watched environmental case on Wednesday (Jan 21) that could shape the future of the Aravalli hills, one of the world’s oldest geological formations and a critical ecological barrier for northern India.
At the centre of the dispute is a proposed redefinition of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range, which environmental activists warn could allow large swathes of the hills to be opened up for mining and construction.
They added that this would threaten biodiversity, as well as could worsen air pollution and heat stress in and around New Delhi.
The government has rejected those claims, arguing the new definition brings clarity to land-use rules without weakening environmental safeguards.
The Indian capital is already one of the most polluted cities in the world, with its 30 million residents having experienced three straight days of severe air pollution in recent days.
Conservationists told CNA that the ancient ridges play a vital role in supporting wildlife, vegetation and human life across northern India.
“The whole of Aravalli should be declared as a protected biosphere across the four states because it is not just about human life,” said Vaishali Rana, a trustee of the Aravalli Bachao Citizens Movement, a grassroots group advocating for the protection of the hills.
“The whole northern India is supported by the Aravallis. But other than that, there is so much wildlife inside, so much vegetation.”
