What is Aravalli Range: Ecology and Significance?
Historical Background
Key Points
9 points- 1.
Extends for about 692 km from Gujarat to Delhi, passing through Rajasthan and Haryana.
- 2.
Acts as a green lung for the NCR, helping to mitigate air pollution and regulate local climate.
- 3.
Crucial groundwater recharge zone for the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan and Haryana, feeding numerous aquifers.
- 4.
Forms a biodiversity corridor, supporting diverse flora and fauna, including endemic species and migratory birds.
- 5.
Serves as a natural barrier against the eastward spread of the Thar Desert, preventing desertification in fertile plains.
- 6.
Source of various rivers like Banas, Luni, Sabarmati, and numerous seasonal streams.
- 7.
Rich in mineral resources (e.g., marble, granite, zinc, copper), leading to significant mining activities, often unregulated.
- 8.
The current news highlights that 31.8% of Aravalli hills in Gurugram, Faridabad, Nuh, and Rewari districts are unprotected due to a narrow definition of 'forest'.
- 9.
Home to several protected areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and national parks (e.g., Sariska Tiger Reserve, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary).
Visual Insights
The Aravalli Range: Extent and Ecological Importance
This map illustrates the geographical spread of the ancient Aravalli Range across four Indian states and highlights its critical ecological functions, serving as a green lung and a barrier against desertification.
- ๐Gujarat โ Southern end of Aravallis
- ๐Rajasthan โ Major portion of Aravallis
- ๐Haryana โ Aravallis in Haryana
- ๐Delhi โ Northern end of Aravallis (Delhi Ridge)
- ๐Thar Desert โ Western side of Aravallis
Aravalli Range: Ecological Services & Threats
A mind map detailing the vital ecological services provided by the Aravalli Range and the various threats it faces, linking them to conservation efforts and policy challenges.
Aravalli Range
- โEcological Significance
- โEnvironmental Services
- โMajor Threats
- โConservation & Governance
Recent Developments
5 developmentsOngoing legal battles against illegal mining and encroachment in the Aravallis, with several Supreme Court directives.
Increased urbanization pressure from the NCR leading to habitat fragmentation and loss of green cover.
Efforts by environmental groups (like Aravalli Bachao Andolan) to advocate for broader protection and ecological restoration.
Debates on the definition of 'forest' and 'Aravalli' for regulatory purposes, impacting conservation efforts.
Government initiatives for afforestation and ecological restoration in degraded areas, often facing implementation challenges.