SC Orders Immediate Halt To Tree Cutting In Kancha Gachibowli Forest In Hyderabad

The Supreme Court has ordered the Telangana government to immediately stop the felling of trees in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area.

A bench led by Justice BR Gavai expressed displeasure and raised several questions about the deforestation.

The court asked the Chief Secretary why there was urgency in clearing the trees and whether an environmental impact assessment was conducted.

It also questioned whether proper approvals were taken and if unrelated officials were part of the decision-making committee.

The court warned that failure to comply with the order would make the Chief Secretary personally responsible for the consequences.

The Supreme Court directed the Registrar (Judicial) to visit the Kancha Gachibowli forest and submit a report.

The proposed deforestation covers 400 acres near Hyderabad University.

The court instructed the Telangana Chief Secretary to ensure that no trees are felled until further orders.

The court took suo motu cognizance after media reports highlighted large-scale deforestation in the area.

Reports also stated that the forest is home to eight scheduled animal species.

The issue gained attention after a mass tree-cutting drive began on March 30. Students and environmental activists protested, bringing the matter to the court.

The Telangana Congress government had decided to auction the 400-acre land to develop an IT park.

The demand for large plots in the area has increased in recent years, attracting major companies to set up headquarters.

The Supreme Court’s intervention aims to prevent environmental damage and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

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