Hyderabad Forest Land Row: SC Takes Strong Stance on Hyderabad Land Case

Hyderabad (The Uttam Hindu): The Supreme Court has expressed deep concern over the cutting of trees in a 400-acre forest land near Hyderabad University, known as the "lungs of Hyderabad". The court has ordered the Telangana government to restore the previous situation, particularly on 100 acres of land.

Background

The forest land, home to over 700 species of trees and plants and more than 200 species of birds, was partially cleared for an industrial area, sparking widespread protests. Videos of animals and birds fleeing the area due to tree cutting went viral on social media, prompting outrage and demands for environmental protection.

Court's Observations

The Supreme Court bench questioned the Telangana government's haste in cutting trees and expressed shock at seeing animals running for shelter in the videos. The court directed the wildlife warden of Telangana to take immediate steps to protect wildlife, emphasizing the need to safeguard the environment.