​The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern warning to the Telangana government regarding the illegal felling of trees in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area near Hyderabad. The Court has demanded the restoration of approximately 100 acres of forest land, emphasizing that failure to comply could result in imprisonment for senior government officials.

A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and A.G. Masih criticized the state for clearing forest land without obtaining necessary permissions, highlighting the urgency and unauthorized nature of the actions. The Court questioned the state’s motives, especially given that the deforestation occurred over a long holiday weekend.

The Court also expressed concern over the impact on wildlife, noting reports of displaced animals and potential threats to endangered species. It has directed the state’s wildlife warden to implement immediate measures to protect the affected fauna. ​

Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the Telangana government, acknowledged potential errors but maintained that the actions were unintentional. The Supreme Court, however, dismissed these explanations, focusing instead on the need for environmental restoration.

The Court has scheduled the next hearing for May 15, granting the Telangana government four weeks to submit a comprehensive restoration plan and a response to the Central Empowered Committee’s report on the matter.

Sources