Will not let anyone touch Aravalli: SC, Pg3

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court refused to allow any activity in the Aravalli range, including the proposed Aravalli Zoo Safari project in Gurgaon and Nuh districts.
• The Haryana government sought permission to submit a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the safari to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), reducing the project size from 10,000 acres to over 3,300 acres.
• The CJI emphasized the need for a scientific basis and a holistic report from an impartial expert committee before any decisions are made regarding the Aravalli range.
• The court's decision is linked to its earlier order to reassess the definition of Aravalli hills, specifically the 100-m height definition, to prevent potential mining activities.

Detailed Insights:

• The Supreme Court's firm stance underscores its commitment to protecting the Aravalli range, recognizing its ecological significance and vulnerability to exploitation.
• The court's decision to form an independent expert panel highlights the need for specialized knowledge in assessing the environmental impact and sustainability of projects in the Aravalli region.
• The ongoing debate surrounding the definition of Aravalli hills is crucial, as a lower height threshold could open up areas for mining, threatening the fragile ecosystem.
• The court aims to take a holistic view of the Aravalli range, considering its entire geographical expanse beyond state boundaries, to ensure comprehensive conservation efforts.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Aravalli Range: A mountain range in northwestern India, known for its ecological importance and biodiversity.
• Detailed Project Report (DPR): A comprehensive plan outlining the objectives, scope, and feasibility of a proposed project.
• Central Empowered Committee (CEC): A committee appointed by the Supreme Court to provide expert advice on environmental matters.