Indian Government Bans Mining in Entire Aravalli Range

In a pivotal move aimed at conserving the Aravalli Range, which spans from Delhi to Gujarat, the Indian Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF CC) has announced a complete ban on the granting of new mining leases within the region. This directive is designed to safeguard the ecological balance of the Aravallis and halt illegal mining operations that threaten its integrity.

The Aravalli Range, a significant geological formation, serves as a crucial ecological barrier and is vital for biodiversity conservation. The recent orders from the MoEF CC apply uniformly across the entire landscape of the Aravallis, marking a significant step in the government's commitment to environmental protection.

In addition to the ban on new mining leases, the Ministry has instructed the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) to identify further areas within the Aravalli Range where mining activities should be prohibited. This assessment will consider ecological, geological, and landscape factors to ensure a comprehensive approach to conservation.

The ICFRE is tasked with developing a detailed Management Plan for Sustainable Mining (MPSM) for the entire region. This plan will be made available for public consultation and will evaluate the cumulative environmental impact of mining, while also identifying ecologically sensitive areas that require conservation efforts. It aims to restore and rehabilitate affected landscapes, taking into account the local topography and biodiversity.

Moreover, the government has mandated that existing mines must adhere to strict environmental regulations and comply with the directives set by the Supreme Court of India. This includes enhanced oversight of ongoing mining activities to ensure they align with sustainable practices and environmental safeguards.

The Government of India has reiterated its dedication to the long-term protection of the Aravalli ecosystem, recognising its essential functions in preventing desertification, conserving biodiversity, and replenishing aquifers. By implementing these measures, the government seeks to enhance the environmental services provided by the Aravalli Range for future generations.

As stated by a government official, "Our commitment to the Aravalli ecosystem is unwavering. These initiatives reflect our understanding of its critical importance and our responsibility to protect it from the threats of unregulated mining."