Jaipur: Former chief minister Ashok Gehlot Monday questioned Rajasthan govt’s preparedness ahead of the Supreme Court-appointed High-Powered Committee’s visit to the Aravali region, alleging that the state is yet to appoint a nodal officer despite repeated communication from the Centre.In a statement, Gehlot said the committee, constituted on the directions of Supreme Court, is scheduled to visit Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan from Aug 6 to 10 to assess the condition of the Aravallis, including issues related to the environment, mining, biodiversity and land use.He claimed that the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) had written to state govt on June 27 and later sent a reminder, but govt had still not designated a nodal officer to coordinate with the committee.“This is an important opportunity to present Rajasthan’s concerns and strengthen the case for conserving the Aravallis. It is disappointing that the govt has not completed even the basic administrative preparations,” Gehlot said.The former chief minister also reminded the BJP of its Assembly election promise to curb illegal mining in the Aravali region and develop a green corridor across the hill range. He also sought strict action against illegal mining in the ecologically sensitive region.“If the govt is not prepared even for the visit of a Supreme Court-appointed committee, it raises serious questions about its commitment to protecting the Aravallis,” he said.Gehlot urged govt to immediately appoint a senior nodal officer, ensure that Rajasthan’s concerns are effectively placed before the committee and facilitate participation of local communities, farmers and environmentalists during the committee’s consultations.Calling the Aravallis Rajasthan’s “natural shield”, Gehlot said the mountain range plays a crucial role in checking the spread of the Thar desert, recharging groundwater, sustaining biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people. “The Aravallis are not just a mountain range. They are vital to Rajasthan’s environmental future. If the Aravallis survive, Rajasthan survives,” Gehlot said.
