ARAVALLI RANGE
1. Context
In February 2019, the Haryana legislative assembly amended the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA) which was effectuated in 1900 for the “conservation of sub-soil water” and “prevention of erosion,” by giving the state the power to “regulate, restrict or prohibit” certain activities, including “clearing or breaking up” of land. This amendment also removed several hills of the Aravalli range from the category of “restricted area,” making around 63,000 acres of the Aravalli range available for construction and mining activities.
2. About Aravalli Range
- The Aravalli Range, often referred to as the Aravalli Mountains, is one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, stretching approximately 800 kilometers across the northwestern states of Rajasthan, Haryana, and Gujarat.
- It is a significant geographical feature with a diverse history, rich biodiversity, and cultural importance.
- The Aravalli Range dates back millions of years and is believed to have formed during the Proterozoic era through tectonic processes.
- It is classified as a fold mountain range, which means it was created by the folding and uplift of ancient rock layers due to the collision of tectonic plates.
- Over geological time, the region experienced various phases of tectonic activity, resulting in the formation of the present-day mountain range.
- The Aravalli Range is characterized by its gentle to moderate slopes and irregular ridges. The range generally runs in the northeast-to-southwest direction, separating the arid Thar Desert to the northwest from the fertile plains of northern and central India to the east.
- Several rivers, including the Banas, Luni, and Sabarmati, originate in the Aravalli Range, contributing to the region's hydrology and supporting agriculture and human settlements.
3. Biodiversity and Ecology
- The Aravalli Range boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it a significant ecological hotspot.
- The forests here are a mix of dry deciduous and thorn forests, providing habitat to a variety of plant and animal species.
- Leopards, sambar deer, chinkara, and various bird species are some of the wildlife found in these mountains.
- Additionally, the Aravalli Range is known for its unique geological formations, including rock formations and caves, which add to its ecological importance.
4. Water Resource and Conservation
- The Aravalli Range acts as a natural water divide, directing the flow of rivers towards the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal.
- It serves as a critical watershed, contributing to the groundwater recharge in the surrounding areas.
- However, over the years, the mountains have faced environmental threats, including deforestation, mining, and urbanization, which have impacted the region's hydrological balance and biodiversity.
- Conservation efforts have been undertaken to protect the Aravalli Range from further degradation.
- Various initiatives aim to promote afforestation, control mining activities, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving this ecologically sensitive region.
5. Fold Mountain
- A fold mountain is a type of mountain formed by the folding of rock layers due to tectonic forces.
- These mountains are created when tectonic plates converge, leading to the compression and bending of the Earth's crust.
- Over millions of years, the continuous pressure causes the rock layers to fold and buckle, resulting in the formation of long mountain chains with parallel ridges and valleys.
- Fold mountains are common on Earth and can be found on different continents.
6. Highest Peak of the Aravalli Range
The highest point of the Aravalli Range is Guru Shikhar, located in the state of Rajasthan, India. Guru Shikhar stands at an elevation of approximately 1,722 meters (5,650 feet) above sea level. It is a prominent tourist destination and a sacred place for locals and visitors alike.
7. Significance of Aravalli Range
- The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, representing millions of years of geological history. It's formation and geological features provide valuable insights into the Earth's ancient tectonic processes and uplift mechanisms.
- The Aravalli Range acts as a natural water divide, separating the watersheds of several major rivers. It directs the flow of rivers in different directions, contributing to the water supply of regions on both sides of the mountain range.
- The Aravalli Range is known for its rich biodiversity, harboring a diverse array of flora and fauna. The region's forests, grasslands, and rocky terrain support a variety of plant and animal species, some of which are endemic and endangered.
- The mountains play a crucial role in regulating the region's hydrological cycle by influencing rainfall patterns and groundwater recharge. The forest cover helps retain water and prevent soil erosion.
- The Aravalli Range has immense cultural significance, with numerous historical and religious sites dotting its landscape. Ancient temples, forts, and monuments stand as a testimony to the region's vibrant past and architectural heritage.
- The scenic beauty of the Aravalli Range and its surrounding areas draws tourists from far and wide. Popular tourist destinations like Udaipur, Mount Abu, and Ajmer attract visitors with their natural beauty and historical charm.
- The range serves as a significant groundwater reservoir, supplying water to numerous wells, lakes, and ponds. It plays a vital role in sustaining agriculture and human settlements in the region.
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For Prelims: Aravalli range, River Banas, River Luni, River Sabarmati, Guru Shikhar.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the geological history of the Aravalli Ranges, its ecological significance, and the challenges faced in ensuring sustainable conservation. (250 words).
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Previous year Question
1. Which one of the following is the correct order of formation of geological systems in India in terms of their age? (Starting with the oldest) (UPSC CAPF 2016)
A. Dharwars - Aravallis - Vindhyans - Cuddapahs
B. Aravallis - Dharwars - Cuddapahs - Vindhyans
C. Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis - Cuddapahs
D. Cuddapahs - Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis
Answers: B
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Source: Down to earth
