The air quality in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) has reached alarming levels, impacting the health and well-being of millions of residents. As someone living in this region, I am directly affected by the hazardous air quality. Every day, I witness the impact of poor air on my community, my family, and myself. The rise in respiratory issues, allergies, and other health problems cannot be ignored any longer. Now, with the Aravali hills under threat due to the government's decision to permit mining, the situation is set to worsen.

The Aravali Range, a majestic and ecologically vital landscape, plays a crucial role in protecting the environment of Delhi and NCR by acting as a natural barrier against the advancement of the desert. They are not just hills; they are a critical part of our ecosystem, essential for maintaining groundwater levels, regulating temperatures, and providing biodiversity habitats. Mining activities in this region would not only devastate this beautiful landscape but also lead to a significant increase in pollution levels and a sharp decline in flora and fauna.

According to the Centre for Science and Environment, mining in the Aravalis has already contributed to the deforestation of approximately 31,000 hectares of land, leading to decreased forest cover and increased desertification. With this new decision, we risk exacerbating these damages further. The long-term consequences are too severe to overlook, as this decision could undermine all efforts aimed at improving air quality and environmental sustainability in the region.

We need immediate action to halt mining activities in the Aravali hills. I urge the government and relevant authorities to reconsider their decision and focus on environmental preservation over short-term economic gains. There are alternative ways to address economic needs without compromising our environment, such as investing in sustainable tourism and local crafts that can provide revenue while conserving nature.

By signing this petition, you are standing up for the health of millions and the preservation of a precious natural resource. Let us unite in our efforts to protect the Aravali hills for current and future generations. Your support is vital to send a strong message to decision-makers that our environment is not negotiable. Sign the petition to save Aravali, save our environment.