The Supreme Court on Wednesday raised serious concerns over the large-scale felling of trees on a 400-acre land parcel adjacent to the University of Hyderabad, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the environment and wildlife in the area.
A bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih questioned the Telangana government on the haste shown in clearing the green cover in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area. “You have to come up with a plan as to how you will restore those 100 acres,” the bench told senior advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who appeared on behalf of the state.
Justice Gavai said the court was taken aback by video footage showing animals fleeing the area in search of shelter. Expressing deep concern, the bench instructed the state’s wildlife warden to take immediate measures to safeguard the wildlife affected by the deforestation.
Reaffirming its commitment to environmental preservation, Justice Gavai remarked, “For the protection of the environment and ecology, we will go out of the way.”
The court ordered that no further trees be cut on the site until further notice. The matter has been scheduled for the next hearing on May 15.
Earlier, on April 3, the apex court had taken suo motu cognisance of the tree felling, describing the situation as “very serious.” The court had also questioned the Telangana government about the necessity behind the abrupt clearance and ordered a stay on any ongoing activity.
The move comes amid strong opposition from students of the University of Hyderabad, who have been protesting against the state’s plan to develop the land adjacent to the university.
The Supreme Court’s strong stance underscores its growing focus on ecological conservation amid increasing urban development pressures.
