What is Aravalli Hills?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Geologically, it is a relict mountain range, significantly eroded over millions of years, with its highest peak being Guru Shikhar (1,722 m) in Mount Abu.
- 2.
Acts as a natural barrier preventing the eastward spread of the Thar Desert and influencing monsoon patterns.
- 3.
Crucial for groundwater recharge in Rajasthan and Haryana, feeding numerous rivers and aquifers.
- 4.
Source of several rivers, including Banas, Luni, Sabarmati, and Sahibi, which are vital for regional water supply.
- 5.
Home to diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic and endangered species, making it a significant biodiversity area.
- 6.
Contains significant mineral deposits such as marble, granite, zinc, copper, and lead, making it vulnerable to mining activities.
- 7.
Includes important protected areas like Sariska Tiger Reserve, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, and Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
- 8.
Its forests act as a carbon sink, contributing to climate regulation and providing essential ecosystem services.
- 9.
The Delhi Ridge, a northern extension of the Aravallis, is considered the "green lungs" of Delhi and is critical for the city's environment.
- 10.
Under severe threat from deforestation, illegal mining, urbanization, encroachment, and unsustainable land use practices.
Visual Insights
Aravalli Hills: Geographical Extent and Ecological Significance
This map illustrates the full geographical spread of the ancient Aravalli Hills across four Indian states, highlighting key ecological and urban centers within its range, and its role as a vital natural and hydrological feature.
- ๐Palanpur, Gujarat โ Southern end of Aravalli Range
- ๐Mount Abu, Rajasthan โ Guru Shikhar (Highest Peak - 1722m)
- ๐Udaipur, Rajasthan โ City in Aravalli foothills, 'City of Lakes'
- ๐Gurugram, Haryana โ Rapid urbanization impacting Aravalli forests
- ๐Delhi Ridge, Delhi โ Northernmost extension, 'Green Lungs of Delhi'
Key Statistics: Aravalli Hills
This dashboard presents crucial statistics about the Aravalli Hills, highlighting its geographical, geological, and ecological significance for UPSC preparation.
- Approximate Length
- ~692 km
- Geological Age
- Precambrian Era
- States/UT Covered
- 4 (Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi)
- Highest Peak
- Guru Shikhar (1722m)
- Rivers Originating
- Banas, Luni, Sabarmati, Sahibi
Stretches from Palanpur (Gujarat) to Delhi, forming a critical ecological corridor.
One of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, indicating its ancient geological history.
Its multi-state presence necessitates coordinated conservation efforts.
Located in Mount Abu, Rajasthan, it's a significant landmark and biodiversity hotspot.
Acts as a watershed, crucial for water security in arid and semi-arid regions.
Recent Developments
5 developmentsOngoing efforts to delineate and protect the Aravalli Notification Area, particularly in Haryana, to prevent non-forest activities.
The Supreme Court's strict stance against illegal mining and encroachment in the Aravallis, issuing directives for their protection.
Persistent protests by environmental groups and local communities for its conservation and restoration.
Initiatives for afforestation and restoration of degraded Aravalli landscapes by state governments and NGOs.
Debate over the definition of 'forest' and 'forest land' in the context of Aravalli's degraded areas, impacting conservation efforts.