New Delhi: The Supreme Court was scheduled to hear the matter on April 16, asking the Telangana government to explain the “convincing urgency” to clear a piece of land cover next to the University of Hyderabad.
While accepting deforestation activities in the Kancha Gachibowli forest, the Apex Court directed on April 3 that, until further orders, shall not be carried out by the state or any authority except for the protection of existing trees.
According to the Supreme Court’s career list on April 16, the matter is scheduled to be heard on the bench of BR Gavai and Augustine George Masih.
The Supreme Court became aware of the matter after senior advocate K Parameshwar got his attention, who used it as a friend of the court in matters related to forests.
The bench carefully read the interim report submitted by the Registrar of the High Court of Telangana (Judicial), which said a large number of small and medium-sized trees and some large trees were destroyed.
“The report of the High Court of Telangana and the photos he sent depicted shocking images. A large number of trees were cut down, and in addition to this, huge machinery was deployed, which had destroyed about 100 acres of area.”
It said the report also found that a certain number of peacocks, deer and birds could also be seen in the area.
“These are ostensibly, indicating that there are forests in which wildlife live,” the bench said.
It directed the Chief Secretary of Telangana to answer several of his questions, including whether the country has obtained an environmental impact assessment certificate for such development activities.
The bench asked if the necessary permissions were obtained from forest authorities or any other local regulations to cut down trees.
The Supreme Court also requested the Central Committee to authorize the Commission to visit relevant locations and submit a report by April 16.
Students at the University of Hyderabad are protesting the state government’s plan to develop a 400-acre parcel bordering the university.
Student groups and environmental activists expressed opposition to the proposals for on-site development work, with concerns about ecological conservation.
