Hyderabad Forest News:

 

Hyderabad Forest News: Kancha Gachibowli at the Crossroads of Development and Conservation

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In early 2025, the Kancha Gachibowli Forest (KGF), a 400-acre green expanse near the University of Hyderabad, became the center of a major environmental controversy. The Telangana government’s plan to auction this forest land for IT development triggered protests, legal action, and public debate over the balance between development and ecological preservation.

The Controversy

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The government proposed building an IT park on the land, promising investments of ₹50,000 crore and the creation of around 5 lakh jobs. However, the project involved cutting down more than 40,000 trees and threatening the habitat of many species, including birds and animals protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The forest is home to over 700 plant species and 237 species of birds.

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Students from the University of Hyderabad, environmentalists, and local citizens protested strongly, arguing that such deforestation would raise city temperatures, reduce groundwater, and destroy biodiversity. The Supreme Court stepped in and halted further tree cutting, demanding a proper environmental impact assessment.

The Government’s Revised Plan

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In response to criticism, the government proposed a 2,000-acre eco-park that would include the forest land and part of the university’s territory. They also planned to relocate the university to a new “Future City” on Hyderabad’s outskirts with ₹1,000 crore funding. The eco-park would include butterfly gardens, wildlife zones, observatories, and more.

Ads< p>While this revised plan was presented as a greener alternative, many critics said it still didn’t compensate for the destruction of an old, natural forest. There were also concerns about uprooting the university community and losing a vital green lung of the city.

Ecological Impact

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Experts have warned that clearing the forest could raise local temperatures by up to 4°C, increase air pollution, and lead to water shortages. The forest helps regulate climate, filter air, and support the Musi River’s watershed. Removing it would have long-term negative effects on Hyderabad’s environment and public health.

Legal Dispute

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The legal ownership of the forest land is also under dispute. While the University of Hyderabad has managed it for decades, official records show the land was never formally transferred to them and is still considered government land. This has added more confusion and tension to the issue.

Conclusion

Ads< >The Kancha Gachibowli Forest dispute has sparked an important conversation about sustainable development. Hyderabad, like many growing cities, faces the challenge of balancing infrastructure growth with environmental protection. What happens in this case may influence future decisions on urban planning across India.

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