Aravalli row: Supreme Court asks Environment Ministry, others to suggest names of domain experts for panel

Aravalli row: Supreme Court asks Environment Ministry, others to suggest names of domain experts for panel

**Supreme Court Mandates Expert Panel to Delineate Aravalli Range Boundaries**

**New Delhi, [Date]** – The Supreme Court of India has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, along with other relevant stakeholders, to propose a list of domain experts. These individuals will form a crucial panel tasked with the definitive demarcation of the Aravalli hills and ranges. This landmark directive aims to bring clarity and legal precision to a region that has been a focal point of environmental concerns and developmental disputes.

The apex court’s intervention underscores the urgency of establishing a clear and legally binding definition for the Aravalli mountain system. For years, the imprecise boundaries of this ancient geological formation have complicated environmental protection efforts and raised questions regarding permissible land use. The formation of this expert panel is a significant step towards resolving these ambiguities and ensuring a more effective regulatory framework for the region.

During the proceedings, the Supreme Court also reiterated its stance on the imperative of lawful activities within the Aravalli region. The court emphasized that any mining operations would be strictly permitted only if they adhere to all existing environmental laws and regulations. This judicial pronouncement serves as a strong deterrent against illegal extraction and reinforces the commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of the Aravallis.

Furthermore, the court has extended an existing stay order that pertains to the uniform definition of these hills. This extension is a procedural necessity, allowing ample time for the formation and deliberation of the expert panel. The stay ensures that no definitive actions are taken based on an undefined geographical scope, thereby preventing potential irreversible damage to the Aravalli ecosystem while the expert committee undertakes its vital work.

The composition of the expert panel is expected to be diverse, drawing upon expertise from geology, ecology, forestry, environmental law, and urban planning. This multidisciplinary approach is essential to comprehensively address the complex challenges associated with the Aravalli range, which spans across multiple states and is a critical ecological corridor. The panel’s findings will likely form the basis for future policy decisions and enforcement actions related to the conservation and sustainable development of this ecologically sensitive area.

The Aravalli range, one of the world’s oldest mountain chains, plays a pivotal role in the environmental health of northwestern India. It acts as a natural barrier against desertification from the Thar Desert and is a significant source of biodiversity. However, it has faced immense pressure from urbanization, industrialization, and illegal mining, leading to widespread degradation. The Supreme Court’s proactive measure to establish a definitive boundary through expert consensus is a critical development in the ongoing efforts to safeguard this invaluable natural heritage.

The judiciary’s role in pushing for a concrete definition of the Aravalli ranges highlights the broader challenge of balancing developmental aspirations with environmental preservation. The success of the proposed expert panel will hinge on its ability to provide a scientifically sound and legally tenable definition that can withstand scrutiny and guide responsible stewardship of the Aravalli region for generations to come. The nation will be closely watching the progress of this crucial initiative.

This article was created based on information from various sources and rewritten for clarity and originality.