Introduction to the Aravalli Hills
The Aravalli Hills are among the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, dating back nearly 1.5 billion years, making them far older than the Himalayas. They extend for about 700 kilometers, starting near Delhi, passing through Haryana and Rajasthan, and ending in Gujarat. Over millions of years, natural erosion has reduced their height, but not their importance. These hills form the backbone of North-West India’s ecology. They influence climate, vegetation, soil fertility, and water availability. Historically, the Aravallis supported ancient civilizations by providing minerals, forests, and water. Today, they still play a silent but crucial role in sustaining life. However, their slow disappearance has become a serious environmental concern.
Ecological Importance of the Aravalli Hills
The Aravalli range acts as a natural ecological shield for northern India. One of its most important roles is preventing the Thar Desert from spreading eastward. These hills help regulate rainfall patterns and maintain moisture in the atmosphere. They also play a major role in groundwater recharge by allowing rainwater to seep into the soil. Forests in the Aravallis help absorb carbon dioxide and reduce air pollution, especially for the Delhi NCR region. The hills reduce dust storms and extreme heat conditions. Without the Aravallis, northern India would face more severe droughts and heatwaves. Their destruction directly affects millions of people living nearby.
Biodiversity and Natural Wealth
The Aravalli Hills are rich in biodiversity, despite being located in semi-arid regions. They support a variety of trees such as dhok, babool, neem, and peepal. Many wildlife species like leopards, hyenas, jackals, nilgai, and numerous bird species depend on these forests. Apart from biological wealth, the Aravallis are rich in minerals such as marble, quartzite, copper, zinc, and limestone. This mineral richness made the region economically important but also vulnerable to exploitation. Over time, forests were cut to access minerals. Wildlife habitats were fragmented, leading to a decline in animal populations. The loss of biodiversity has disturbed the ecological balance of the region.
Reality of Destruction of the Aravalli Hills
The harsh reality is that large parts of the Aravalli Hills have been systematically destroyed over the last few decades. Hills have been flattened, forests cleared, and valleys filled for construction. Illegal mining has eaten deep into the mountain structure, leaving scars that cannot heal naturally. Natural water channels have been blocked or diverted. Many areas that once had thick forest cover are now barren land. This destruction is not accidental but the result of unchecked human activities. Weak enforcement of environmental laws has worsened the situation. The long-term damage caused is far greater than short-term economic benefits.
Illegal Mining: The Biggest Controversy
Illegal mining is the core controversy surrounding the destruction of the Aravalli Hills. Despite repeated bans by the Supreme Court of India, mining continues in many regions of Rajasthan and Haryana. Mining mafias operate with political support and administrative negligence. Heavy machinery is used to extract stones and minerals, causing vibrations, landslides, and air pollution. Dust from mining affects human health and agriculture. Villagers living nearby suffer from respiratory diseases and water shortages. Even protected forest areas are not spared. This illegal activity has turned ancient hills into rubble.
Urbanization and Real Estate Pressure
Rapid urbanization near Delhi, Gurugram, and Faridabad has increased pressure on the Aravalli region. Forest land is often reclassified as non-forest land to allow construction of highways, housing projects, and luxury resorts. Builders see the Aravallis as prime real estate rather than ecological heritage. Construction destroys natural slopes and blocks rainwater flow. This leads to flooding during monsoons and water scarcity during summers. Environmentalists argue that such development is short-sighted. Once the hills are gone, they cannot be rebuilt. Urban expansion is turning ecological assets into concrete jungles.
Environmental and Climate Impact
The destruction of the Aravalli Hills has serious environmental and climate consequences. Temperatures in North India have increased significantly over the years. Groundwater levels have dropped sharply because natural recharge systems are damaged. Air pollution has worsened due to loss of green cover and increased dust. Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense. Flooding during heavy rainfall has increased because the hills no longer absorb water efficiently. These changes affect agriculture, health, and daily life. Climate experts warn that continued destruction will make the region unlivable in the future.
Protests and Movements to Save Aravallis
In response to destruction, several protests and public movements have emerged to save the Aravalli Hills. Environmental activists, students, scientists, and local villagers have joined hands under campaigns like “Save Aravalli.” Public Interest Litigations (PILs) have been filed in courts. Social media has played a major role in spreading awareness. Protesters demand strict action against illegal mining and construction. Many citizens see the Aravallis as a lifeline rather than land for profit. These movements highlight public resistance against environmental injustice. Though progress is slow, awareness is growing steadily.
Conclusion: A Struggle Between Development and Survival
The reality of the Aravalli Hills reflects a conflict between development and environmental survival. While economic growth is important, destroying nature for short-term gain is dangerous. The Aravallis protect climate, water, air, and biodiversity for millions of people. Their loss would create irreversible damage. Government policies, judicial orders, and public participation must work together to save them. Restoration efforts like afforestation and strict law enforcement are urgently needed. The protests against their destruction represent hope for conservation. Saving the Aravalli Hills means protecting India’s environmental future and the well-being of coming generations.
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