History of Illegal Mining at the Aravallis

The Aravalli Range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, stretches across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. These hills are not just scenic landscapes; they are vital ecological assets that recharge groundwater, regulate climate, prevent desertification, and maintain biodiversity. Unfortunately, the Aravallis have long been under threat from illegal mining activities, which continue to draw national attention. Decades of Illegal Mining Illegal mining in the Aravallis is not a recent phenomenon. Mining for stone, gravel, sand, and minerals has been ongoing for decades, often exceeding legal limits or taking place in ecologically sensitive zones. Despite multiple Supreme Court bans in the early 2000s and environmental regulations, illegal operations continued, particularly in Haryana districts like Nuh, Gurugram, and Faridabad. Key Materials Extracted Construction materials: Sand, bajri (gravel), quartzite, clay Decorative and industrial stone: Sandstone, limestone, granite, marble (notably in Rajasthan) Minerals: Lead, zinc, copper, silver, gold, gypsum, rock phosphate, calcite These extractions have severely impacted the region’s groundwater recharge, vegetation, and soil quality. Notable Arrests in Illegal Mining Cases Authorities, primarily the Haryana Police and Haryana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), have arrested several key individuals in connection with illegal mining and road construction in Aravalli-protected areas. These arrests took place between June and October 2025, highlighting the long-standing nature of these violations. Several individuals were arrested: Sher Mohammad – taken into custody on 23 June 2025 as a key accused in the illegal mining and road network. Mohammad Hanif (Anna) – sarpanch of Basai Meo village, arrested on 15–16 October 2025 for facilitating unauthorized roads into protected areas. Mohammad Latif and Sakul Khan – residents involved in assisting illegal activities, also arrested in June 2025. Bijender Rana – District Revenue Officer, taken into custody on 11 July 2025 for approving unauthorized road expansions that aided mining. Shabir and Shaukat – named in FIRs, remain absconding and have not been arrested as of the latest reports. Authorities Involved The arrests were made by the Haryana Police and Haryana ACB, following investigations into illegal extraction and the construction of unauthorized roads through ecologically sensitive zones. These roads were used to transport mined materials, highlighting the systemic nature of illegal operations. Current Status Most of the accused remain in custody, while some, including Shabir and Shaukat, are still absconding. Legal proceedings are ongoing, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter enforcement of environmental protections. The Bigger Picture Illegal mining has long degraded the Aravalli ecosystem, threatening forests, wildlife, and groundwater. Even after multiple court directives and environmental regulations, these hills continue to face the risk of further exploitation. Recent protests and public awareness campaigns have brought renewed focus to the Aravallis’ plight. As one question rising in public discourse states: “Are we now being asked to save only what is left of the Aravallis?”