Ashok Gehlot hails SC-constituted panel on Aravallis

Former Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot has welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to constitute a high-level committee for an independent review of the definition and demarcation of the Aravalli range, expressing hope that it will strengthen conservation efforts.

In a statement issued Thursday, Gehlot said the formation of the five-member panel on the crucial issue of defining and protecting the Aravalli range is a “welcome step”.

“We hope the committee will prepare a scientific definition that ensures protection of the Aravalli ecosystem,” he said.

The Supreme Court has directed the committee to examine issues and “significant ambiguities” flagged in the Centre’s report on the matter.

Referring to prevailing extreme weather conditions, Gehlot said protecting the Aravallis is essential for safeguarding coming generations.

“Given the severe heat and changing climatic conditions being faced by Rajasthan and the country, it is imperative to conserve the Aravallis, which act as a natural protective shield,” he said.

He added that parameters used one or two decades ago may not be suitable in the current environmental context and the panel should take into account the present climate crisis while making its recommendations.

The senior Congress leader also criticised the Centre’s policies on the issue, alleging that they had posed a serious threat to the existence of the Aravallis.

Gehlot expressed confidence that the committee’s efforts would help conserve smaller hills and reinforce the Aravalli range as a vital natural barrier, the statement added.