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Complex Aravali Landscape Defies Simple Definition
4 Sep
Summary
- HPC requests six more months for Aravali definition until Feb 27.
- A complex landscape requires more than height or terrain criteria.
- Panel is examining ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic dimensions.
A Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee (HPC) has requested an extension until February 27 to define the Aravali mountain range. The HPC informed the Supreme Court that the complex landscape of the Aravalis cannot be captured by a single terrain or height-based criterion. Initially, the court had adopted a definition recognizing hills with an elevation of 100 meters or more, but this drew protests and was later stayed.
The HPC, led by director-general Kanchan Devi, emphasized the need for geospatial analysis, field validation, and stakeholder consultations. They highlighted that defining the Aravalis, which span from Gujarat to Delhi, is challenging due to their lack of uniformity. A restrictive definition could exclude ecologically vital areas, impacting the northern plains and increasing Delhi-NCR's vulnerability to dust storms.
The committee is developing an Aravali Ecosystem Landscape framework to assess the range holistically. This approach will consider geological and geomorphological features, terrain, watersheds, forests, biodiversity, and ecological connectivity. It will also include socio-economic factors and areas of archaeological significance.
Field assessments conducted by the HPC from August 6-11 reinforced the need for a multi-dimensional approach, revealing the Aravalis as a connected landscape with interlinked values. The committee is also investigating the impact of mining activities on the region's drainage systems and biodiversity, having received numerous representations from various stakeholders.
