New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stand against mining in the Aravali region, declaring that no activity will be permitted in the ecologically sensitive zone until a fresh scientific framework and definition of the hills is finalised.
A bench led by Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi stated during the hearing that the court would not allow “even an inch” of the Aravali region to be used for mining or any other purpose until it is fully satisfied with the recommendations of a newly proposed expert committee.
The court’s observations came months after it stayed an earlier judgment that had accepted a controversial 100 metre elevation criteria for defining the Aravali hills. Environmental groups had strongly opposed the definition, arguing that it could leave large portions of the region vulnerable to mining and ecological destruction.
During the proceedings, lawyers representing mining lease holders sought permission for the process of granting and renewing leases to continue, even if final approvals were delayed. However, the bench rejected any relaxation and maintained that no activity would be allowed until the scientific review is completed.
Highlighting the environmental damage caused by illegal mining over the years, the Chief Justice remarked that the issue had escalated because of the influence of a “powerful mining lobby”. Describing the Aravalis as the green lungs of north western India, the court stressed the importance of protecting the fragile ecosystem before permitting any development or extraction activities.
The Supreme Court had earlier taken suo motu cognisance of concerns surrounding the definition of the Aravali hills and ordered an immediate halt to all mining operations as well as the grant or renewal of mining leases in the region.
The court has now proposed the formation of a panel of domain experts to conduct a detailed scientific study and prepare a comprehensive definition aimed at preserving the structural and ecological integrity of the Aravali range.
Senior advocate K Parameshwar informed the court that a list of experts has already been submitted following consultations with the government, and the matter is expected to be listed again soon for the formal constitution of the committee.
