Dramatic before-and-after satellite photos of the Kancha Gachibowli forest, Hyderabad, have emerged online, showing extensive deforestation in five days. Taken on March 28 and April 2, the images depict a dramatic change—from a lush green cover to a desolate land with bulldozers and construction machinery.
More than 10,000 Trees Cut Down Despite Protests
Based on initial estimates from environmentalists and analysts, over 10,000 trees have already been felled. Visuals by air provided by Tech & Infra on Indian X substantiate the claims and go against the Telangana government’s contention that the area was not declared as forestland.
The clearing went on for days amid increasing protests and public outcry. Activists claim that the 400-acre green zone, close to the University of Hyderabad, was a grazing ground and ecological center with more than 17,700 trees.
Supreme Court Halts Tree Felling
The Supreme Court stepped in on April 3, ordering that all tree cutting be stopped forthwith in the area. The Telangana state government was also asked to report on the justification for the development project and submit proof of any environment impact studies done.
“Photographs from March 28 and April 2 show extensive clearing of land,” the court observed, expressing alarm at the open ecocide.
Police Crackdown on Student Protesters
University of Hyderabad students and teachers have led a strong campaign of resistance against land transfer to the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC). The protests were met with a fierce police response, with multiple detentions and witnessed lathi charges on peaceful protesters.
Activists put the number of trees already cut at over half those in the region. The one-time thriving habitat of Kancha Gachibowli hosted 734 plant species, 220 birds, 15 reptiles, and 10 mammals.
Protests for its Protection as a Bio-Heritage Site
The University of Hyderabad Teachers Association and Save City Forest, a citizens’ collective, have urged the government to declare the forest a bio-heritage reserve. They cautioned that further destruction could result in increased urban temperatures, deteriorating air quality, and worsening water scarcity.
According to the Supreme Court’s recent directive, everything has been stalled. Telangana’s Chief Secretary has been called upon to clarify the environmental and legal justification behind the controversial project.