‘Not a single inch’: Supreme Court halts Haryana’s Aravalli zoo safari project

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has halted the controversial Aravalli zoo safari project in Haryana, emphasizing that no part of the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range should be compromised for development. The decision came in response to a plea from five retired Indian Forest Service (IFS) officers, who argued that the project posed a serious threat to the environment and biodiversity of the region. The court's directive reflects growing concerns over the protection of natural habitats in the face of urbanization and infrastructure expansion. The Aravalli range, one of the oldest mountain ranges in India, is crucial for maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change effects in Northern India. The ruling underscores the judiciary's commitment to environmental conservation and sets a precedent for future projects that may encroach upon protected areas. This decision has been welcomed by environmentalists and conservationists who have been advocating for stricter measures to safeguard India’s natural heritage against exploitative development initiatives.