A Landscape-Level Approach Needed to Restore Aravallis

To restore the Aravallis to their original glory, priority should be given to legally protecting these landscapes, freeing them of encroachments, and shielding them from mindless infrastructure development, Vijay Dhasmana, curator of the Aravalli Biodiversity Park said in an interview.

- Jayashree Nandi

NEW DELHI: Edited excerpts.

How do you think degraded Aravallis can be restored ecologically?

Aravalli landscapes are very fragile, yet the forests and grasslands within them are remarkably resilient. Restoration requires a thorough understanding of the threats they face. The natural trajectory of land restoration follows the path of protection, ecological restoration, and long-term sustenance. In my view, the first priority is to legally protect these landscapes—guarding them against encroachments and diversion of land for uses such as settlements and infra development.