Supreme Court’s Concern for Kancha Gachibowli’s Wildlife
The Supreme Court of India is raising alarms over a significant environmental issue in Kancha Gachibowli, Hyderabad, where extensive tree felling has taken place. This response comes in light of growing concerns regarding the ecological imbalance resulting from the removal of trees without proper permissions.
Legal Implications and Government Accountability
During a hearing, Justices B. Gavai and A.G. Masih emphasized that all necessary permissions should have been obtained by the Telangana government prior to initiating any construction activities. They expressed disbelief at the scale of deforestation, stressing that no further tree cutting should take place. They noted the presence of disturbed herbivorous animals seeking refuge amid the uproar, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Political Tensions and Environmental Advocacy
The court’s intervention follows a political dispute, with Prime Minister Modi accusing the Congress-led state government of irreparably damaging forest lands. As the situation unfolds, the Telangana government asserts ownership of the controversial land, classified as revenue land, while local activists and the University of Hyderabad emphasize its ecological importance. The ongoing dispute highlights the tension between industrial development and environmental preservation, with calls from students and activists for the restoration of the area echoing throughout the community.