February 19, 2025
Introduction:
The Haryana government’s proposal for a vast Aravali safari park has ignited controversy. Spanning 3,858 hectares across Gurugram and Nuh, this project aims to become the world’s largest safari park.
Project Details
The Aravali safari park is designed to include animal enclosures, guest accommodations, dining options, and recreational facilities. The Haryana Tourism Department has initiated the tender process. The project aims to boost tourism in the region. However, it has been transferred to the forest department for better oversight. An expert committee has been established to evaluate its environmental impact.
Aravali Range
- The Aravali mountain range is one of the oldest fold mountains in the world.
- It extends about 670 km from near Delhi to Gujarat, passing through Haryana and Rajasthan.
- Formation and Geological Significance:
- Part of the Aravalli-Delhi orogenic belt, formed due to tectonic plate collision during the Proterozoic era.
- It belongs to the Indian Shield, shaped by ancient cratonic collisions.
- Originally very high, but erosion over millions of years has reduced its height.
- Guru Shikhar (1,722 meters or 5,650 feet) is the highest peak, located in Rajasthan’s Arbuda Mountains.
- Rivers Originating from Aravalli:
- Banas River (tributary of Yamuna).
- Sahibi River (tributary of Yamuna).
- Luni River (flows into the Rann of Kutch).It plays important role in preventing desertification and serves as a vital aquifer.
- Divisions of the Range:
- Sambhar-Sirohi Range (includes Guru Shikhar, taller section).
- Sambhar-Khetri Range (consists of three discontinuous ridges).
- The hills are home to diverse wildlife and plant species.
- They help recharge groundwater, essential for the water-scarce areas of Gurugram and Nuh.
- The ecological integrity of this region is paramount to maintaining local water supplies.
Opposition to the Project
A coalition of 37 retired Indian Forest Service officers has formally opposed the safari park. They argue that the project prioritises tourism over conservation. Any development in ecologically sensitive areas should focus on restoration rather than destruction. Increased traffic and construction could severely impact the area’s aquifers, which are already under stress.
Legal Protections for the Aravali
The Aravali hills are protected under several laws, including the Punjab Land Preservation Act of 1900. This legislation restricts land use and deforestation in the region. Additionally, around 24,000 hectares have been designated as Protected Forest under the Indian Forest Act. The National Green Tribunal and Supreme Court have reinforced these protections, making the proposed safari park a contentious issue.
Alternative Suggestions
Experts suggest that instead of a safari park, the government should consider establishing a national park or sanctuary. This would better align with conservation goals and protect the unique biodiversity of the Aravali range. The focus should be on rewilding and preserving natural habitats rather than developing tourist-centric projects.