SC Halts All Activity In Kancha Gachibowli Land

Taking suo motu cognizance of reports of large-scale tree felling and alleged environmental violations, and the ongoing protests, the Supreme Court of India today ordered an immediate halt to all developmental and deforestation activities in the 400 acres of land in Kancha Gachibowli.

The court expressed alarm over the rapid clearing of trees - reportedly over 100 acres in a single day - and questioned the Telangana government's urgency.

A bench led by Justice B R Gavai demanded a detailed affidavit from the Chief Secretary, and also asked whether environmental clearances, including an EIA, were obtained.

It scheduled the next hearing for April 16.

Just yesterday, the Telangana High Court had issued a temporary injunction halting tree felling at Survey No 25 in Kancha Gachibowli. This decision was in response to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Vata Foundation and students from the University of Hyderabad, who advocated for the land to be designated as a national park due to its ecological significance.

The petitioners highlighted the area's rich biodiversity, including various wildlife species and unique geological formations. They urged the area be preserved as a national park due to its ecological value and proximity to the university.

Adding pressure, the Union Environment Ministry labelled the clearance "illegal" and sought an explanation from the State. Union ministers G Kishan Reddy and Bandi Sanjay Kumar also flagged the issue to the Centre.

In response to the SC move, Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka denied any wrongdoing and announced a three-member committee to review the matter and consult stakeholders. He emphasized that the land was government-owned and said that the state aimed to develop it into an employment hub.

As the Supreme Court awaits the state's report, the case has sparked a broader debate on balancing urban development with environmental preservation - especially in a city rapidly expanding into its green fringes.