Today, On 3rd April, The Supreme Court directed the Telangana High Court registrar to visit the site of tree felling and submit an interim report. The order comes amid concerns over environmental damage and alleged illegal deforestation. The court emphasized the need for immediate assessment and accountability in the matter. The interim report is expected to provide crucial details for further legal proceedings.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday instructed the registrar (judicial) of the Telangana High Court to promptly visit the Kancha Gachibowli forest area, where tree felling is proposed on a 400-acre land parcel adjacent to the University of Hyderabad.
This matter was brought before a bench consisting of Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih.
The bench stated,
“We, therefore, direct the registrar (judicial) of the High Court of Telangana to forthwith visit the site in question and submit his interim report by 3.30 pm today.”
It also directed the registrar (judicial) of the Supreme Court to immediately communicate its order to the high court’s registrar, who is to take prompt action.
Additionally, the bench ordered the Chief Secretary of Telangana to ensure that, until further notice from the court, no tree felling is allowed in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area.
The matter is scheduled for a hearing at 3.45 pm today.
The bench was informed that the Telangana High Court is also addressing this issue.
The bench noted,
“We clarify that we are not staying the proceedings before the Telangana High Court,”
Students from the University of Hyderabad are protesting against the state government’s plans to develop the 400-acre land parcel bordering the university.
The Telangana High Court has instructed the Congress government to suspend all related works until April 3.
The Kancha Gachibowli forest area has been at the center of controversy due to multiple environmental and legal issues. Some of the key concerns involved are:
1. Alleged Illegal Tree Felling
Reports suggest large-scale tree cutting in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area, raising concerns over deforestation and environmental degradation. The Supreme Court has taken note of this issue and directed the Telangana High Court registrar to inspect the site and submit an interim report.
2. Environmental and Ecological Impact
The area is considered a vital green zone, contributing to biodiversity and acting as a lung space for Hyderabad. Unchecked deforestation threatens local flora and fauna, disrupts ecosystems, and contributes to rising temperatures and air pollution.
3. Land Encroachment and Real Estate Interests
There are allegations that the forest land is being cleared for commercial and real estate development. Encroachments on protected forest areas have been a recurring issue in Telangana, leading to legal disputes and public outcry.
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