31.8% of Aravalli Range at risk after recent classification, says conservation group
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Species, protected areas & wetlands· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The conservation collective 'We Are Aravalli' criticized the Centre's classification of the Aravalli hills as having only 0.19% ecological risk, alleging independent satellite analysis shows 31.8% are at risk.
Background
The 'We Are Aravalli' group demands a complete ban on mining in the Aravalli range and its inclusion within the recognized Aravalli mountain system. They argue the range serves as critical water recharge zones and dust barriers for millions of people.
Facts for Prelims
- PlaceAravalli Range: Identified as a crucial water recharge zone and dust barrier.
- FactWe Are Aravalli group's satellite analysis: 31.8% of the range is under ecological risk.
- FactCentre's classification: 0.19% of the Aravalli hills are affected by ecological risk.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the ecological significance of the Aravalli Range and evaluate the trade-offs between industrial mining activities and the preservation of critical water recharge zones.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological degradation: Loss of natural dust barriers and groundwater recharge capacity due to mining
- Regulatory oversight: Discrepancy between independent satellite data and official ecological risk classifications
- Restoration hurdles: Complexity of reclaiming damaged hills versus the economic demand for mineral extraction
Keywords: Ecological risk · Water recharge zones · Mining leases · Conservation collective · Satellite analysis
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This note is generated automatically from SatyaDheesh's news feed and mapped to the UPSC CSE syllabus. Check facts against the original report or PIB before using them in an answer.