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Supreme Court Halts Hyderabad Deforestation, Demands Restoration Plan

India's top court orders Telangana government to restore 100 acres of cleared forest near University of Hyderabad, warning of severe penalties for non-compliance.

The students are protesting against the Telangana government's plan to auction 400 acres of forested land in the Kancha Gachibowli area for the development of IT parks.
The land has been at the centre of a controversy after the state government decided to auction it for development, triggering protests spearheaded by the students union of the neighbouring University of Hyderabad. (PTI)
The court said a credible plan for ecological restoration of the 100-acre forest was the only acceptable course. (ANI)
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Overview

  • The Supreme Court has reiterated its order to stop all tree felling on 100 acres near the University of Hyderabad, emphasizing environmental and ecological protection.
  • The Telangana government has been directed to submit a detailed plan for restoring the deforested land, with the court warning of potential jail time for senior officials if they fail to comply.
  • Judges criticized the state for bypassing permissions and highlighted disturbing evidence of displaced wildlife, including videos of animals fleeing for shelter.
  • The court has ordered the state's wildlife warden to take immediate measures to safeguard habitats and ensure the protection of affected species.
  • The controversy stems from redevelopment plans for a 400-acre parcel, which has sparked protests from students and activists concerned about ecological disruption and legal violations.