Aravalis Blocked: Forest Dept Halts Illegal Mining

The Haryana forest department has taken decisive action to combat illegal mining by blocking a dirt track in the Raisina Aravalis. A trench was excavated across the pathway near Sohna on Thursday, preventing vehicles from transporting illegally mined sand and soil through the ecologically sensitive hills. This measure aims to disrupt the transportation networks commonly used to ferry illicit materials from remote parts of the Aravalis.

Authorities are intensifying surveillance in vulnerable stretches of the Aravalis, with plans to block additional access points if necessary. The move underscores ongoing concerns about rampant illegal mining in the region, despite repeated Supreme Court directives aimed at protecting this fragile ecosystem. Past instances, such as the illegal extraction in Nuh district, have drawn severe criticism from the apex court, highlighting a persistent struggle against mining mafias.

Environmentalists have long warned about the detrimental impacts of excavation and heavy vehicle movement on the Aravali hills, including accelerated erosion and habitat fragmentation. The Raisina Aravalis, a crucial ecological corridor, plays a vital role in preventing desertification and maintaining groundwater levels in the NCR region. Conservation efforts focus on restricting vehicular access to safeguard these natural barriers.