The Supreme Court of India has issued an interim order to halt the felling of trees and clearing of land in the 400-acre area of Kancha Gachibowli, located near the University of Hyderabad. This decision comes in response to petitions highlighting significant environmental concerns and alleged violations of forest conservation laws.
The Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC) had initiated the clearing operations as part of a plan to develop IT infrastructure in the region. However, environmental activists and local residents raised alarms over the potential destruction of a vital green space, home to diverse flora and fauna, including species such as peacocks and deer. The area also features unique rock formations and water bodies, contributing to its ecological significance.
The Supreme Court’s directive mandates an immediate cessation of all activities related to land clearing and tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli. The Court has also instructed the Registrar (Judicial) of the Telangana High Court to conduct an on-site inspection and provide a comprehensive report on the current status of the land.
In parallel developments, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has sought a detailed report from the Telangana government regarding the alleged unauthorized removal of vegetation in the area. The Ministry emphasized the necessity for legal action under relevant environmental laws to address any violations.
The Telangana High Court had previously intervened, directing the state government to halt tree felling activities until further notice. This sequence of judicial interventions underscores the critical importance of environmental conservation in the face of urban development pressures.
Environmental organizations and concerned citizens have welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, viewing it as a significant step toward preserving the region’s ecological balance. The case highlights the ongoing tension between development objectives and environmental stewardship, emphasizing the need for sustainable planning that respects natural habitats.
As the situation develops, stakeholders await the findings of the High Court’s inspection and subsequent legal proceedings to determine the future of the Kancha Gachibowli area.
