The Supreme Court of India has issued a stern warning to Telangana’s Chief Secretary and other senior officials regarding the deforestation of the Kancha Gachibowli forest area near the University of Hyderabad. The court directed that the cleared land be restored through afforestation within two months, failing which the responsible officials could face jail time for contempt of court .

The deforestation occurred during a long weekend, raising suspicions that it was a pre-planned move to avoid judicial scrutiny. The court questioned the timing and method of the tree felling, emphasizing that prior environmental clearance was necessary . The Central Empowered Committee (CEC) has recommended declaring the 400-acre site as forest land and restoring it with native species during the monsoon season .

The Supreme Court has scheduled a further hearing for July 23, 2025, to review the progress of the restoration efforts .

Sources