Supreme Court sets firm November 30 deadline for Aravalli Hills expert panel

The Supreme Court has firmly rejected an expert panel's plea for additional time to complete its report on the Aravalli Hills, setting November 30 as an absolute deadline for submission. The panel had sought an extension until February 2024, but the court rejected the request outright, signalling its determination to expedite the proceedings.

The expert committee, constituted to examine critical issues pertaining to the Aravalli Hills region, will now be required to submit its findings and recommendations by the stipulated date. The court's unambiguous stance reflects the judiciary's commitment to resolving long-pending environmental and land-use concerns affecting the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range.

The Aravalli Hills, spanning across multiple states including Haryana, Rajasthan, and parts of the National Capital Region, have been subject to increasing scrutiny due to mining activities, unauthorized construction, and environmental degradation. The expert panel's report is expected to provide crucial guidance on conservation and sustainable management of the region.

The Supreme Court's firm directive underscores the urgency with which it views the matter and its resolve to prevent further procrastination in addressing the challenges facing this important mountain range.