Special Report | Environment | Rajasthan
The Aravalli mountain range is silently collapsing.
Rajasthan’s oldest and most vital natural shield is being destroyed in the name of development and unchecked greed. Environmental experts warn that if the Aravalli is not protected immediately, Rajasthan will soon face an extreme water crisis, unbearable heat, and rapidly expanding desertification.
“अरावली बचेगी, तभी राजस्थान बचेगा।”
Aravalli – The Lifeline of Rajasthan
The Aravalli range is counted among the oldest mountain systems in the world, stretching across Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi. Scientists say it was formed millions of years ago and has since played a crucial role in regulating climate, rainfall, and groundwater across North India.
In a dry and semi-arid state like Rajasthan, the Aravalli:
- Prevents the spread of desertification
- Recharges groundwater
- Guides monsoon winds
- Supports forests and wildlife
Environmental experts believe that without the Aravalli, large parts of North India would become uninhabitable.र भारत का बड़ा हिस्सा रहने लायक नहीं बचेगा।
“अरावली कोई पहाड़ नहीं, जीवन की दीवार है।”
The Last Natural Barrier Against the Desert
The Thar Desert remains limited to western Rajasthan largely because of the Aravalli range. Acting as a natural barrier, it stops desert sand from advancing eastward.
Recent environmental reports warn:
- If the Aravalli weakens further
- Desert sand could spread to Jaipur, Alwar, Bharatpur, Ajmer, and even Delhi
This would pose a direct threat to millions of lives, livelihoods, and food security.
“अरावली टूटी, तो रेत बोलेगी।”
Water Crisis and the Direct Link to Aravalli
The Aravalli plays a critical role in absorbing rainwater into the soil, maintaining:
- Wells
- Stepwells (baoris)
- Ponds and lakes
- Groundwater levels
According to water experts, mining and deforestation in the Aravalli region have caused:
- Rainwater to flow away rapidly
- Reduced soil water retention
- Continuous groundwater depletion
In many parts of Rajasthan, water is now found at depths of 800–1000 feet
“अरावली बचाओ, पानी बचाओ।”
Illegal Mining – The Biggest Threat to Aravalli
Illegal mining is the most destructive force attacking the Aravalli today. Despite court orders and regulations:
- Hills are being cut down
- Stones and minerals are illegally extracted
- Forest areas are being cleared
Local residents report that mining often happens at night, and before authorities can act, entire hills disappear.
“अरावली बिक रही है, और हम चुप हैं।”
Deforestation and Rising Temperatures
Deforestation in the Aravalli region has directly contributed to rising temperatures. Over recent years:
- Heat intensity has increased
- Heatwave incidents have surged
- Climate-related illnesses have grown
Forest department data shows continuous decline in forest cover, causing severe damage to biodiversity.न पहुंचा है।
“पेड़ कटे, तो सांस घटे।”
Laws Exist, But Enforcement Is Weak
The Supreme Court of India and the National Green Tribunal (NGT) have issued multiple orders to protect the Aravalli. Yet:
- Ground-level enforcement remains weak
- Local violations continue unchecked
- Development projects often receive exemptions
Environmental activists say that on paper the Aravalli is protected, but on the ground it is disappearing.कत में उसका अस्तित्व खतरे में है।
“कागज में बची अरावली, धरती पर रोती अरावली।”
What Happens If the Aravalli Disappears?
Experts give a clear warning:
- Severe water scarcity across Rajasthan
- Farming will become nearly impossible
- Heat will reach deadly levels
- Large-scale migration will begin
This will not remain just an environmental issue—it will become a social and economic disaster.
“आज अरावली रो दर्द, काल हमारी तकदीर।”
Whose Responsibility Is It?
While the government, administration, and judiciary have critical roles, relying solely on them is not enough.
Citizens must:
- Oppose illegal mining
- Plant and protect trees
- Spread awareness
- Understand that protecting Aravalli is not anti-development—it is pro-life
“विकास वो, जो प्रकृति ने न तोड़े।”
Conclusion – There Is Still Time
The Aravalli is not completely lost yet, but the warning bells are ringing loudly. If action is delayed any further, future generations will never forgive us.
“अरावली बचावो, राजस्थान बचावो।”
Key Slogans (For News Highlights & Social Sharing)
- Aravalli is Life
- Save Aravalli, Save the Future
- Protect the Mountains, Protect Water
- If Aravalli Falls, the Desert Rises