Particle.news
Download on the App Store
41 ARTICLES
·
2d ago

Supreme Court Puts Aravalli Definition On Hold, Seeks Independent Expert Review

The bench signaled concern over the 100‑metre threshold’s ecological impact, scheduling a January 21 hearing.

The Aravalli hills act as a vast, fractured rock sponge that captures monsoon rain and recharges groundwater aquifers. (HT Archive)
Referring to the long-running environmental litigation in TN Godavarman Thirumulpad case, the Supreme Court delivered a 29-page judgement in the suo motu matter.
The top court decided to revisit the contentious issue of what constitutes the Aravallis and proposed forming an expert panel to comprehensively examine questions.
A joint check, experts argued, will not meet these standards, impinge on each department’s autonomy and will water down a crucial process baked into law to safeguard forests and green spaces. (HT Photo)

Overview

  • The court stayed its November 20 directions and the earlier committee’s recommendations, saying they were being misconstrued and require clarification.
  • It proposed constituting a high‑powered committee of domain experts to reassess the definition of Aravalli hills and ranges and the ecological consequences.
  • Notices were issued to the Union government and the four Aravalli states—Rajasthan, Haryana, Gujarat and Delhi—with responses sought in the suo motu case.
  • The bench flagged questions on ecological continuity across 500‑metre gaps, parameters for any regulated mining, and whether reported mapping figures are scientifically sound.
  • The environment ministry has already directed states to stop granting new mining leases in the Aravallis pending expert review and a sustainable mining plan.