India, Jan. 15 -- Encroachments, deforestation, illegal mining and urban infrastructure expansion in the Aravalli ranges have severely impacted groundwater recharge, biodiversity, air quality and climate regulation, according to a study.

Extensive diversion of forestlands, particularly around Sariska and Bardod Wildlife Sanctuaries prior to the 1980s, led to a substantial decline in native forest cover, fragmenting critical wildlife habitats and water catchments, it noted.

The research, Eco-restoration of the Aravalli Landscape, was undertaken by Sankala Foundation with support from the Embassy of Denmark in India and the Haryana State Forest Department. The study adopted an integrated approach to addressing ecological degradation in th...