In an important environmental decision, the Supreme Court of India has issued an interim order to stop tree felling in the Kancha Gachibowli forest near Hyderabad Central University. The court has instructed the Registrar of the Telangana High Court to conduct an inspection and submit a report regarding the situation.

A bench consisting of Justice BR Gavai and Justice AG Masih passed the order after Senior Advocate K Paremeshwar, the Amicus Curiae in the forest conservation case (TN Godavarman), brought the matter to the court’s attention. Reports suggested large-scale deforestation was taking place over a long holiday weekend.

"Newspapers depict that vast deforestation is being undertaken in the Kancha Gachibowli forest. It shows that a large number of trees are being felled. The news items indicate that, taking advantage of long holidays, the authorities have rushed to cut down trees. It is further reported that the forest area is home to eight types of scheduled animals."

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Taking swift action, the Supreme Court directed that:

• The Registrar (Judicial) of the Telangana High Court visit the site and provide an interim report by 3:30 PM today.
• The Registrar (Judicial) of the Supreme Court ensure that the order is immediately conveyed to the Telangana HC Registrar.
• The Chief Secretary of Telangana guarantee that no further tree felling occurs in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area until the court issues further instructions.

During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Dr. Abhishek Manu Singhvi, representing the State of Telangana, informed the court that the Telangana High Court was already handling the matter. In response, the Supreme Court clarified that it was not interfering with the High Court’s ongoing proceedings.

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Previously, the Telangana High Court had issued a status quo order preventing tree felling in the area. This order was in effect until today, pending further hearings.

The case has drawn attention due to concerns about environmental degradation and the protection of biodiversity. Reports indicate that the Kancha Gachibowli forest is home to several protected animal species, making conservation efforts crucial. The Supreme Court’s decision ensures immediate protection for the area while further legal steps are considered.