New Delhi, Jan 21: The Supreme Court on Wednesday said illegal mining in the Aravallis can cause irreversible damage and announced plans to constitute an expert committee to examine mining and related issues in the region.
A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi directed Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati and amicus curiae K Parameshwar to suggest names of environmentalists and scientists within four weeks for the panel. The committee will work under the supervision of the court.
The apex court also extended its order keeping in abeyance its November 20 directions that accepted a uniform definition of Aravalli hills and ranges, amid concerns that criteria such as a 100-metre elevation and 500-metre gap could leave parts of the range unprotected.
Earlier, the court had banned new mining leases in Aravalli areas across Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat until expert reports are submitted. The move follows assurances from Rajasthan authorities to prevent unauthorized mining.
The committee will ensure a holistic and scientifically informed approach to protecting the Aravalli Hills, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems. (PTI)
