Short Description
A recent study reveals alarming environmental decay in the Aravali range due to urbanization, deforestation, and illegal activities, prompting calls for urgent eco-restoration efforts.
Read Time
4 minutes and 30 seconds
Main Article
The Aravali range, one of the world’s oldest mountain systems, faces severe ecological threats due to rapid urbanization and illegal mining, as highlighted by a study conducted by the Sankala Foundation in collaboration with the Danish Embassy and Haryana State Forest Department. The research, “Eco-restoration of the Aravali Landscape,” underscores how encroachments and deforestation impact groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and overall climate stability.
Historically, the diversion of forest lands, especially around wildlife sanctuaries like Sariska, fragmented vital habitats and reduced native forest cover. As urban infrastructure expands in Haryana and surrounding states, the integrity of the Aravali ecosystem is further compromised. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasized the importance of this mountain range as a crucial ecological barrier for the National Capital Region (NCR) and noted its role in harboring over 50 million people. However, ongoing deforestation and unsustainable land usage have weakened its function as a green barrier, accelerating desertification and ecological instability.
The study reveals that much of the natural landscape is now highly degraded, with invasive species like Prosopis juliflora and Lantana camara dominating the area, displacing native flora and altering the ecosystem dynamics. With an overwhelming 43 percent of households relying on the forests for essential resources such as firewood, fodder, and medicinal plants, the local communities face increasing pressure. Groundwater depletion for agriculture adds to the environmental stress, creating a cycle of vulnerability and resource scarcity.
To counteract these challenges, the research endorses a community-inclusive eco-restoration model tailored to specific villages in the southern Aravali belt of Gurugram. By combining scientific assessments with local community participation, the proposed framework aims to establish afforestation and water-retention measures critical for harnessing climate resilience. This model serves as a replicable approach to restore balance and sustainability in a region grappling with rapid urban sprawl and ecological disruption.
Short Summary
In summary, the degradation of the Aravali range presents a critical environmental challenge that threatens biodiversity and groundwater resources. The proposed eco-restoration model aims to engage local communities for sustainable and resilient practices, ensuring the longevity of this vital ecosystem. As urbanization continues, immediate intervention strategies are essential for preserving the ecological balance of the region.
