In a strong stance against deforestation, the Supreme Court has issued a stern warning to the Chief Secretary of Telangana over the large-scale felling of trees in Hyderabad’s Kancha Gachibowli area. The apex court, which took suo motu cognizance of the issue, questioned the urgency behind the developmental activity and ordered an immediate halt to further destruction.
On March 4, the Court had directed all states and union territories to form Expert Committees to identify forest areas, emphasizing that Chief Secretaries would be held accountable for any violations. However, just days after Telangana constituted its committee, reports surfaced of rampant deforestation in Kancha Gachibowli, prompting the Court to intervene.
A bench of Justices BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih expressed concern over the reckless clearance of trees and warned the Chief Secretary of strict consequences. Justice Gavai remarked that if violations continued, a temporary prison would be constructed on-site for the Chief Secretary.
Following the Court’s orders, the Telangana High Court Registrar (Judicial) visited the site and submitted a report revealing massive deforestation across nearly 100 acres. The report also highlighted the presence of wildlife, including peacocks and deer, indicating that the area was indeed a forest.
In response, the Supreme Court issued directives, including a site visit by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) by April 16 and a complete halt to all activities except tree protection. The Telangana government was also asked to explain the necessity of the project and whether environmental clearances were obtained.
With environmental activists, students, and local communities opposing the land auction for IT development, the issue has sparked widespread protests. The Court’s intervention is seen as a crucial step in preserving Hyderabad’s green cover.
