In a fresh challenge to environmental regulations, illegal miners have resumed constructing roads in the ecologically fragile Aravalli range in Haryana's Nuh district, prompting local authorities to launch a comprehensive survey and crackdown.
Renewed Illegal Activity
Despite repeated warnings and previous enforcement actions, miners have returned to the Aravallis, building unpaved roads to facilitate the transportation of mined materials. This activity poses a severe threat to the region's biodiversity and groundwater levels.
Authorities Respond
The Nuh district administration, along with the mining department and forest officials, has initiated a detailed survey to identify all illegal constructions. Teams are being deployed to assess the extent of damage and take strict legal action against violators.
Officials confirmed that heavy machinery used in road construction has been seized, and cases under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, are being registered.
Environmental Impact
The Aravalli range, one of the oldest mountain systems in the world, acts as a crucial green lung for the National Capital Region. Unchecked mining and road building have led to deforestation, loss of wildlife habitat, and depletion of water resources. Environmentalists have repeatedly called for a complete ban on mining in the area.
Local residents have also voiced concerns about increased dust, noise pollution, and damage to agricultural land. Many have demanded a permanent solution to prevent illegal mining activities.
Survey and Future Action
The ongoing survey aims to map all illegal roads and mining sites. Authorities plan to dismantle these structures and restore the land to its natural state. A special task force may be constituted to monitor the Aravallis regularly.
Nuh Deputy Commissioner stated, "We are committed to protecting the Aravalli ecosystem. Any illegal activity will be dealt with severely. The survey will help us take targeted action."
Meanwhile, the Haryana government has been urged to implement stricter surveillance measures, including the use of drones and satellite imagery, to detect and prevent illegal mining in real-time.
