Ecology and Sustainable Development (With Special Reference to Aravali Hills)

Abstract

The Aravalli Mountain range which stretches widely from Gujarat in the southwest to Delhi in the northeast for about 700 km and which sculpts the topography of eastern Rajasthan and adjoining parts of Haryana and Delhi, is the largest mountain range. Its ecology has always been a point of fascination to the localites and those who belong to the areas other than the ones that fall within the Aravali mountain range. In Rajasthan, it creates a picturesque backdrop for flourishing settlements that reveal their superiority over others due to their climatic richness. The highest point of the Aravali hills is at Guru Shikhar on Mount Abu in Rajasthan where the peak rises to about 1,722 m.
The effect of the ranges on the biodiversity and environment of the region is so immense. They support open forests, famous forts and temples of historical importance, micro climate and the hydrological features.
It will not be wrong to comment that the Aravalli ranges are the lifeline of this region of Rajasthan because several rivers sustain life in the adjoining areas. In addition, essential resources for sustaining human and livestock populations of the area are provided. However, the current situation is drastic because due to the greed of the modern man, recent developments have adversely affected their biodiversity.
The paper, designed primarily on the secondary data found available in the books of Geography and Ecology and in the various studies on the issue available in the varied national and international journals, concludes that in order to maintain the original form of the Aravali hills, it is essential to adopt some effective governmental policies so that the ecological features can be maintained and sustainable development in and around the Aravali hills can be brought about.