The Aravalli Hills, famously known as the green lungs of North India, are facing a stern protest from the Supreme Court challenge once again.
Supreme Court Stays Earlier Order
The Supreme Court, in its previous order regarding the Aravalli Hills, has stayed that order in a very significant manner. This action is pivotal as it temporarily halts any ongoing activities under the earlier order, thus providing time for a detailed examination. The stay is a precaution against actions that could have been taken to endanger the ecological balance or open up environmental degradation opportunities from which the decisions that have already been made might have benefited.
Formation of Expert Committee
In its attempt to have a thorough and detailed understanding of the situation, the Supreme Court has directed the constitution of a fresh expert committee. This body is entrusted with the scrutiny of all the matters that can be considered as the Aravallis, inter alia, including:
- Extent of deforestation and illegal land use
- Impact of mining and construction activities
- Measures needed for environmental restoration
- Compliance with existing environmental laws
It is supposed that the committee will prepare and submit an elaborate report that will be instrumental in making the next decisions and the implementation of policies aimed at safeguarding the Aravalli ecosystem.
Notice to Centre and Aravalli States
The Supreme Court has sent notices to the Centre and four states, such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Delhi, and Haryana, inquiring about their comments on the suo motu case. The states are the parties most impacted, as they share the Aravalli range among them. The replies of the Centre and the states will be of paramount importance in determining the committees’ suggestions and the next steps of the court.
