On April 3, 2025, the Supreme Court expressed shock over the large-scale felling of trees across hundreds of acres in Hyderabad’s Kancha Gachibowli area. In response, the Court ordered an immediate halt to all developmental activities in the region, permitting only actions aimed at protecting the existing trees. The bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and A.G. Masih, initiated a suo motu case on the matter.
Additionally, the Court directed the Chief Secretary of Telangana to provide an explanation for the “compelling urgency” behind the deforestation activities. The bench emphasized the necessity for the state to adhere to environmental compliance and warned of potential actions against state officials if any lapses are discovered.
This intervention by the Supreme Court underscores the judiciary’s commitment to environmental preservation and the enforcement of legal procedures in developmental projects.
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