Home / Environment / Supreme Court Halts Aravalli Safari Project
Supreme Court Halts Aravalli Safari Project
13 Feb
Summary
- Supreme Court will not allow any interference with Aravalli range.
- Haryana's jungle safari plan reduced to 3,300 acres from 10,000.
- Expert definition of Aravalli range is pending clarification.
The Supreme Court has firmly stated it will not permit any development in the Aravalli range until experts provide a clear definition. This stance came as Haryana sought approval to submit a revised project report for a jungle safari.
The court's bench, led by the Chief Justice, expressed concern that the Aravalli range transcends state borders and requires expert clarification before any plans proceed. Haryana's revised jungle safari project now covers over 3,300 acres, a reduction from its initial 10,000-acre proposal.
Last October, the top court had previously halted the ambitious Zoo Safari project. This initiative, aiming to house various species, was challenged by retired forest officers and an NGO fearing ecological damage to the fragile Aravalli region.
Furthermore, the court is reviewing ambiguities in previous directives concerning the Aravalli's definition, including elevation and gap criteria. A high-powered expert panel is being considered to resolve these critical issues and prevent regulatory gaps. No mining permits will be granted without prior court permission until further orders.
