Aravali Safari Park Project and Related Concerns

Explore the Aravali Safari Park Project, Haryana’s ambitious plan to develop the world’s largest safari park. Learn about its features, tourism potential, environmental concerns, and the debate over its impact on the fragile Aravali ecosystem.

Context: The Haryana government has proposed a 3,858-hectare Aravali Safari Park across Gurugram and Nuh districts.

About Aravali Safari Park Project

It is a proposed wildlife park spanning 10,000 acres in the Aravalli hills of Haryana.
The project would include animal cages, hotels, restaurants, botanical gardens, aquariums and more.
After completion, it will be the World’s Largest Safari Park. (Currently in UAE).

Concerns

Threat to groundwater reserves in the water-scarce districts of Gurugram and Nuh.
Violation of forest laws, as the project area falls under protected forest land.
Haryana’s low forest cover (3.6%), which needs reforestation, not commercial projects.

Ecological Importance of the Aravali Range

The Aravali hills in southern Gurugram and Nuh form part of the oldest fold mountain range in the world.
The Aravali range stretches 690 km from Champaner in Gujarat to near Delhi in the northeast.
Key ecological roles of the Aravalis:
- Prevents desertification – Acts as a barrier against the spread of the Thar Desert into eastern Rajasthan.
- Groundwater recharge – The highly fractured and weathered rocks allow water to percolate, replenishing aquifers.
- Rich biodiversity – The region is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species.