Recently, massive dust storms in parts of Rajasthan highlighted the ecological importance of the Aravalli Range.
- This storm has been caused by Western Disturbances that brought high-speed winds and upward surge of hot air due to heating in Western Rajasthan.
- The Aravallis act as a natural barrier between the Thar Desert and the Indo-Gangetic plains whose degradation has increased intensity of such storms in Delhi and northern plains in the past.
Importance of the Aravalli Range
- Geographical Importance: It is one of the world’s oldest fold mountain ranges that extends from Gujarat to Delhi over nearly 700 km.
- Barrier Against Desertification: The Aravallis prevent the eastward spread of the Thar Desert and reduce dust storms in northern India.
- Ecological Importance: The range supports rich biodiversity through forests, grasslands and wildlife habitats.
- Hydrological Importance: The range acts as a major watershed and is the source of rivers like Sabarmati, Luni and Banas.
- Economic and Cultural Importance: They support agriculture, livestock and mining while hosting important cultural and religious sites.
Measures to Protect the Aravallis
- Aravalli Green Wall Initiative: Large-scale restoration programme by MoEFCC focusing on Afforestation, Grassland restoration, Wetland restoration etc.
- Control on Mining : Strict regulation of illegal mining and encroachments along with enforcement of Supreme Court directives.
- Soil Conservation: Construction of check dams, contour trenches and rainwater harvesting structures.
