Supreme Court Raises Alarm Over Shrinking Sukhna Lake, Orders Expert Panel on Aravalli Mining

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has expressed deep concern over the drying of Chandigarh’s famous Sukhna Lake, warning the Haryana government against repeating past mistakes. A bench headed by Chief Justice Suryakant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul Pancholi, observed that collusion between officials and the builder mafia has caused severe damage to the lake. The remarks were made during hearings on issues related to the Aravalli hills.

Falling Water Levels Threaten the Lake
During the proceedings, the bench highlighted how political and administrative collusion has enabled illegal activities, asking pointedly, “How much more will you dry Sukhna Lake? You have already ruined it.” Once a prime tourist destination dependent on rainfall, the lake’s declining water levels in recent years have put both its beauty and existence at risk.

Formation of Expert Committee for Aravalli Mining
The Supreme Court directed the constitution of an expert committee to conduct a comprehensive investigation into illegal mining and related issues in the Aravalli region, citing potential irreparable damage. The bench instructed Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati and amicus curiae K. Parameshwar to submit names of environmental scientists and experts within four weeks to form the committee.

The panel will function under the supervision and guidance of the Court. The Supreme Court also extended its previous order from November 20, 2025, which had temporarily recognized a uniform definition of Aravalli hills and hill ranges.

Illegal Mining and Government Assurances
The Court was informed that sporadic illegal mining continues in certain areas. The bench recorded assurances from the Rajasthan government, through Additional Solicitor General K. M. Nataraj, that no unauthorized mining would occur in these areas.

Dispute Over Definition of Aravalli Hills
The case arose amid a controversy over the definition of Aravalli hills. The Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognizance under the title “Definition of Aravalli Hills and Hill Ranges” and, on December 29, 2025, stayed its earlier November 20 order that had accepted a uniform definition.

The November 20 order had sought to treat Aravalli hills and ranges under a single definition, but concerns were raised that applying the standards of 100 meters in height and 500 meters separation could exclude significant portions of the Aravalli from environmental protection. The Court had also prohibited the issuance of new mining leases in areas covered under this definition until expert reports were submitted.