The Aravalli Hills Redefinition: A Concern for India's Environmental Integrity
In a letter to the Union Minister for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has questioned the recent redefinition of the Aravalli Hills. The new definition, which restricts the classification to landforms with an elevation of 100 metres or more, has raised concerns about the ecological integrity of the Aravalli range, a mountain range that extends across four states, including parts of North East India.
The Original Definition and Its Significance
According to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) report from August 2010, all areas having a slope of 3 degrees or more, along with a uniform 100-meter-wide buffer on the downhill side, were to be classified as hills. This definition, which has been in use since 2012, also included flat areas, tabletops, depressions, and valleys falling within the delineated regions as part of the hills.
The New Definition and Its Potential Impact
Ramesh's letter raises concerns about the ecological implications of the new definition, which may result in the loss of numerous small hillocks. These smaller hill formations serve as natural barriers against desertification, protecting Delhi and neighbouring plains from sandstorms. As the protective effect of a barrier against windblown sand scales directly with its height, even modest hills of 10 to 30 metres act as strong natural windbreaks.
The North East Connection
The Aravalli range extends into parts of North East India, particularly Assam and Meghalaya. The ecological health of these regions is closely tied to the Aravallis, as the mountains act as a barrier against erosion and a reservoir of biodiversity. The potential loss of small hillocks could have cascading effects on the region's environment and wildlife.
Implications for India's Environmental Policy
Ramesh's letter underscores the need for a careful reconsideration of the Aravalli Hills redefinition. If implemented, the new definition could undermine the geographical and ecological integrity of the Aravalli range, with potential consequences for the entire country. The debate over the Aravallis highlights the importance of evidence-based environmental policy-making in India, a need that is particularly relevant in the context of climate change and biodiversity loss.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Development and Conservation
As India continues to grapple with the challenges of development and conservation, the Aravalli Hills redefinition serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that must be maintained. The future of the Aravalli range, and the ecosystems it supports, will depend on our ability to make informed decisions that prioritize the long-term health of our environment.