Nestled in the picturesque Santhal Pargana area of Jharkhand, the Rajmahal Hills stand as a silent witness to the relentless march of time. Surrounded by the villages of Choti Pachrukhi and Amjori, this area showcases a breathtaking geological heritage that is now facing an environmental crisis due to illegal stone quarrying.
Geological Marvel of the Rajmahal Hills
The Rajmahal Hills are celebrated for their remarkable geological features, being among the oldest mountain ranges in India. Their origins, linked to volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, position them as a geological marvel, second only to the ancient Aravali range.
Historical and Prehistoric Significance
Beyond their geological importance, the Rajmahal Hills are treasured for housing rare Jurassic-period fossils. These fossils provide a window into Earth’s prehistoric ecosystems, making the hills invaluable to scientists and researchers worldwide.
The Environmental Crisis Unfolding
Despite their significance, the Rajmahal Hills are under threat from illegal stone quarrying activities. The relentless pursuit of mining has led to the degradation of this unique geological and ecological site, with several hills already obliterated.
The Perpetrators and the Persistence of Illegal Mining
The so-called stone mafia is largely responsible for the illegal excavation that threatens the Rajmahal Hills. Their activities have not only endangered the region’s ecological balance but also its rich historical and geological tapestry.
Efforts Towards Conservation
Efforts to conserve the Rajmahal Hills and protect their rich heritage from further damage are underway. Conservation initiatives aim to preserve the hills’ biodiversity and the precious fossils they contain, highlighting the need for urgent protective measures.
The Role of Authorities and Regulatory Bodies
In the face of this environmental crisis, authorities and regulatory bodies, including the National Green Tribunal, have a pivotal role to play. Their actions against illegal mining are crucial in safeguarding the Rajmahal Hills.
A Call to Action: Preserving Our Geological Heritage
The plight of the Rajmahal Hills is a call to action for all stakeholders involved. Preserving this geological heritage requires a concerted effort to combat illegal mining and promote awareness of the hills’ global significance.
Conclusion
The Rajmahal Hills are more than just a feature of India’s landscape; they are a testament to the Earth’s ancient history. Protecting these hills is imperative to preserving our geological heritage and ensuring that future generations can learn from and be inspired by their timeless story.
Question 1
What is the geological significance of the Rajmahal Hills?
A. They are the youngest mountain range in India.
B. They are known for their volcanic origin, dating back 68 to 118 million years.
C. They are primarily sedimentary in nature.
D. They were formed due to glacial movements.
Answer: B. They are known for their volcanic origin, dating back 68 to 118 million years.
Question 2
Which area in Jharkhand are the Rajmahal Hills located?
A. Palamu
B. Santhal Pargana
C. Ranchi
D. Hazaribagh
Answer: B. Santhal Pargana
Question 3
What major environmental issue is the Rajmahal Hills facing?
A. Air pollution
B. Deforestation
C. Illegal stone quarrying
D. Water pollution
Answer: C. Illegal stone quarrying
Question 4
What kind of fossils have been discovered in the Rajmahal Hills?
A. Cretaceous-period fossils
B. Jurassic-period fossils
C. Triassic-period fossils
D. Paleozoic-era fossils
Answer: B. Jurassic-period fossils
Question 5
Which of the following hills has been mentioned as nearly extinct due to excessive mining?
A. Trikut Hill
B. Gadwa Hill
C. Maluti Hill
D. Tagore Hill
Answer: B. Gadwa Hill
Question 6
Who has played a significant role in the illegal excavation of the Rajmahal Hills?
A. Local farmers
B. Stone mafia
C. Tourist companies
D. Forest department
Answer: B. Stone mafia
Question 7
Which authority is mentioned as being involved in addressing the illegal mining issues in the Rajmahal Hills?
A. Central Pollution Control Board
B. Jharkhand State Pollution Control Board
C. National Green Tribunal
D. Environmental Protection Agency
Answer: C. National Green Tribunal
