Environmental Groups Push for No-Development Zones in Hill Ranges
In Navi Mumbai, environmental groups are urging the government to classify certain hill ranges as strict no-development zones. This request has gained attention, reaching the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) after intervention from the President of India.
The President’s office has acknowledged a petition from NatConnect Foundation. They strongly oppose proposals that would allow mining in the Aravalli Hills. This concern has been forwarded to the MoEFCC for further investigation.
The MoEFCC plays a crucial role in checking compliance with environmental laws. Their Statutory Unit assesses public feedback, reviews existing policies, and considers any legal implications before making formal decisions.
B.N. Kumar, the Director of NatConnect, highlighted the importance of preserving natural ecosystems. He pointed out that these environments, shaped over millions of years, can’t be replaced by artificial solutions.
While the focus is on the Aravalli range, Kumar warned that other hill systems across India, including the Himalayas and the Sahyadris, are also at risk. He shared that many of these areas suffer from mining, construction, and deforestation due to policy loopholes and weakened environmental protections.
Recent data supports these concerns. According to a report from the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, more than 75% of India’s forests are under threat from various human activities, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures.
Kumar argues that the vision of a developed India should not come at the expense of its ecological foundation. The visible impacts of neglecting these environments include depleting groundwater levels, worsening air quality, and increasing instances of floods and heatwaves.
He expressed a dire need for sustainable development practices, warning that short-term gains could lead to long-term devastation. Kumar urged the government to establish clear no-development zones for all hill systems, starting with the Aravallis.
As the debate continues, many on social media are voicing their concerns, sharing posts about the need for responsible environmental stewardship. It’s clear that protecting these vital ecosystems is not just about today’s needs but also about securing a healthy planet for future generations.
For more information on environmental protection efforts, you can visit the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
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