Archive · 5 Dec 2025
Aravali Hills' New Definition Threatens Delhi's Weather and Water Security
The Aravali Hills are very old mountains that help protect places like Delhi from sand and dust from the desert.
They also help with groundwater and support many plants and animals.
Recently, the government and the Supreme Court decided that only hills taller than 100 meters should be called Aravali Hills.
Experts are worried that this change could mean that most of the Aravali Hills won't be protected anymore.
This could lead to more dust storms, lower groundwater levels, and worse air pollution.
People in Delhi and other nearby areas might face health problems because of this.
Some politicians are also concerned and want the government to reconsider this decision.
The Aravali Hills serve as a natural shield against sand and dust from the Thar Desert, aiding groundwater recharge and biodiversity.
The Supreme Court accepted a new government definition that only hills taller than 100 meters will be considered part of the Aravali Hills.
Experts warn that this new definition could expose Delhi and other regions to harsher weather, drought conditions, and increased air pollution.
The Supreme Court directed authorities to identify permissible areas for mining and conservation-critical areas within the Aravali landscape.
Political leaders, including Congress leaders, have demanded a debate on air pollution and the protection of the Aravali Hills.
- Who
- Experts, environmentalists, and political leaders.
- What
- The new definition of the Aravali Hills by the government, which only includes hills taller than 100 meters.
- When
- The Supreme Court recently accepted the new government definition.
- Where
- The Aravali Hills, spanning across multiple states including Delhi-NCR.
- Why
- To potentially allow for mining and developmental activities in areas not classified as Aravali Hills, which experts warn could lead to environmental degradation and health issues.
- Aravali Hills
- One of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, spanning approximately 700 km in length.
- New Definition
- Only hills taller than 100 meters will be considered part of the Aravali Hills.
- Impact
- Potential exposure to harsher weather, drought conditions, and increased air pollution.
- Supreme Court Directive
- Authorities to identify permissible areas for mining and conservation-critical areas.
- Aravali Green Wall Initiative
- Aims to establish a 5-kilometer-wide green belt buffer across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi.
- Air Quality in Delhi
- Air quality remained in the 'very poor' category, with AQI levels ranging from 279 to 373.
- Political Reactions
- Congress leaders demanded a debate on air pollution and the protection of the Aravali Hills.
