(a) Whether the Government are aware of the increasing ecological havoc in Aravali hills;
(b) If so, the details thereof and reasons for the havoc;
(c) the action initiated by the Government against the persons responsible for ecological degradation of Aravali hills; and
(d) the steps taken to protect and conserve the Aravali hills?
MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENT AND FORESTS (SHRI T .R. BAALU)
(a)& (b) There has been ecological degradation in the Aravali hills due to increase in biotic pressure and various other activities including mining.
(c)&(d) Efforts are being made for containing ecological damage in the Aravali range including strict and effective implementation of the provisions of the Punjab Land (Preservation) Act 1900, Environment (protection) Act 1986, Forest Conservation Act 1980 and other relevant Acts, Rules and Regulations. A notification under Section 3 of the Environment (protection) Act 1986 has been issued on, 7th May 1992, prohibiting carrying out of processes and operations such as cutting of trees, mining, setting up of new industries, construction and electrification in the specified areas of Aravali range in Gurgaon and Alwar districts, except with prior permission. Notification under Section 4 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 has been issued in respect of the ridge areas falling in Delhi which is part of `the Aravali range, notifying Government intention to declare this area as reserve forest. For conservation and development of ridge areas, Ridge Management Board has been constituted.