Starting Sunday afternoon and extending through the night, government agencies deployed upwards of 50 earthmovers to clear trees, shrubs, and other vegetation from the 400-acre expanse slated for auction. The cleared land is expected to generate an estimated revenue of Rs 10,000 to 15,000 crore, funds earmarked to develop world-class infrastructure, expand IT parks, and enhance urban connectivity in the region. However, for many local residents and student groups, these plans come at a steep environmental cost.
Student Protests and Legal Battles
Students from the University of Hyderabad argue that the land forms an integral part of a larger ecosystem, sheltering over 455 species of flora and fauna—including several endangered species—based on a joint study conducted with WWF-India in 2008-09. Activists claim that clearing the green space destroys a vital habitat and violates longstanding legal precedents.
A student leader lamented, “They worked overnight to destroy the ecosystem, even as a petition demanding that the entire 400 acres be preserved as a national park is pending before the High Court, with a hearing scheduled on April 7.” More than 50 students were detained on Sunday while trying to obstruct the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TIIC) from continuing its work.
Government’s Stand and Counterclaims
The Telangana government maintains that it is the sole owner of the land, emphasizing that revenue records indicate the area is not classified as forest land. A statement from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) notes that the master plan layout includes preserving notable natural features like the Mushroom Rock.
A senior official added, “Any dispute created over this issue will be considered in contempt of court. Our focus is on sustainable development, and measures like a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan (EMP) are in the pipeline to balance infrastructure growth with ecological conservation.”
Historical Context and Rising Concerns
This incident follows previous cases of unauthorized tree felling in Hyderabad, leading to fines and legal actions. Critics cite the landmark 1996 T N Godavarman Thirumulpad vs Union of India case, where the Supreme Court ruled that any land with forest cover should be treated as forest land regardless of its notified status.
Looking Ahead
As the High Court hearing approaches on April 7, the legal and environmental implications of this dispute remain uncertain. The outcome could set a precedent for future urban development projects in ecologically sensitive zones. For now, the clash between development ambitions and environmental preservation continues in Hyderabad.