For several days, the University of Hyderabad campus in Telangana resembled a conflict zone as students clashed with police forces deployed to contain the protests against the destruction of a 400-acre urban forest located in the adjacent Kancha Gachibowli village, Rangareddy district. What began as peaceful resistance by students quickly escalated into a full-blown environmental protest, as many students were lathi-charged, detained, and confronted by heavy police presence. Despite the pressure, students, along with faculty members and civil society groups, continued their determined campaign to save the forest. Their unwavering effort finally bore fruit when, on April 3, the Supreme Court of India took suo moto cognisance of the issue and passed a landmark order halting all tree-felling activities in the area.

The apex court directed the Chief Secretary of Telangana to ensure that “no tree felling” takes place until further notice and sought detailed explanations regarding the “compelling urgency” of the developmental activity. The court also questioned whether the State had conducted a proper Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before commencing any work. Until the matter is resolved, the court has ordered that no activity be permitted in the region, other than the protection of existing trees. Furthermore, the Supreme Court made it clear that the Chief Secretary will be held personally accountable for any violations of this directive.

This historic decision is being hailed as a major victory for environmental activists and young climate defenders. The 400-acre patch of greenery in Kancha Gachibowli is considered one of the last remaining urban forest stretches in Hyderabad, housing diverse flora, fauna, and essential ecosystems. Environmental experts warn that its destruction could lead to serious consequences such as loss of biodiversity, increased urban flooding, and deteriorating air quality. The protest has also brought to light the critical need for urban forest conservation, responsible urban planning, and public consultation before infrastructure development.

The student-led campaign quickly gained momentum across social media with hashtags like #SaveKanchaGachibowli and #StopTreeFelling sparking a nationwide conversation on sustainable development and environmental justice. Without aligning with political narratives, the movement has become a powerful symbol of youth-led environmental activism in India, showing how determined voices can influence real change. The case continues to inspire communities across the country to safeguard green zones and demand accountability in land use decisions, proving that development and environmental responsibility must go hand in hand.

Sources Frontline

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