Supreme Court Halts New Mining in Aravallis Across Four States Until Further Notice

In a significant move aimed at environmental conservation, the Supreme Court has issued a directive prohibiting the grant of new mining permissions in the Aravalli region spanning across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat until further orders. The decision, delivered by a bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and A S Oka, seeks to strike a delicate balance between environmental protection and the livelihoods of those engaged in mining activities.

While emphasizing that the court’s order does not impede ongoing mining operations with valid permits and licenses, the bench underscored the need to address the rampant issue of illegal mining prevalent in the Aravalli range. The Central Empowered Committee’s report highlighted various instances of illegal mining activities across Rajasthan, prompting the court to intervene and take decisive action.

Acknowledging the complexities surrounding the definition of the Aravalli hills and range across different states, the Supreme Court has mandated the establishment of a committee tasked with formulating a uniform definition. Comprising representatives from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, forest departments of the four states, and relevant agencies, the committee has been instructed to submit its report within two months.

Importantly, the court clarified that ongoing mining activities will continue unaffected, ensuring minimal disruption to the livelihoods of those dependent on the mining sector. Additionally, the directive does not extend to sand mining activities in Rajasthan and is specifically limited to mining operations within the Aravalli Range.

By implementing this directive, the Supreme Court aims to address the pressing issue of illegal mining while fostering a sustainable approach to environmental conservation. Recognizing the importance of balancing developmental needs with environmental protection, the court’s decision underscores its commitment to upholding the principles of sustainable development and safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Aravalli region.

As stakeholders await the committee’s recommendations and further directions from the court, the decision marks a crucial step towards ensuring the responsible management of natural resources and preserving the fragile ecosystem of the Aravalli hills for future generations.