Supreme Court allows mining in Aravallis, Congress calls it 'disastrous'
The Supreme Court has accepted a new definition of the Aravalli hills, under which only areas at least 100 meters above local relief are fully protected—leaving most of these hills without protection from mining and construction.
This move has upset environmentalists and the Congress party, who worry about the impact on nature and public health.
Why does it matter?
With over 90% of the Aravallis now excluded from protection under the new definition (except in wildlife zones and sensitive areas), experts warn this could hurt biodiversity, groundwater, and even increase dust pollution.
Congress is pushing for a judicial review, saying mining on unprotected hills could contaminate water supplies across four states and disrupt wildlife habitats.
The court has asked the government to create a plan for sustainable mining that balances development with protecting the environment.