New Delhi: The Supreme Court, after suspending all mining operations in the ecologically sensitive Aravali Hills, on Friday began hearing on the issue relating to permissibility of mining for minor minerals and the fate of the colonies constructed in the environmentally threatened area in Faridabad district.
Enviroment minister Jairam Ramesh on Monday informed the Parliament that the government would take action against Haryana and Rajasthan if they do not take adequate measures to stop illegal mining in the Aravali Hills.
Figure Varies From 150 To 600; Opposition By Locals Builds Up
Bhiwani (Chowkhi Dadri): Even as the SC verdict in May came as some relief for the ravaged Aravali range in Gurgaon, Faridabad and Mewat, the mines of Bhiwani are razing parts of the Aravali.
What comes as welcome news for Sultanpur National Park in Gurgaon, Bhindawas wildlife sanctuary in Jhajjar as well as another national park and seven other sanctuaries, the Central government has issued a draft notification declaring areas around these sites as eco-sensitive zones (ESZs). This would mean all development activity within 5-km radius of these spots will be restricted.
The Supreme Court has done well to impose a blanket ban on all mining activities in the ecologically fragile Aravali hills, spanning the Faridabad, Gurgaon and Mewat districts of Haryana.
