Kancha Gachibowli Forest Row: Development vs Environment
Why in the news
A row over forest land near the University of Hyderabad (UoH) shows the clash between growth and ecology.
Key facts
- Kancha Gachibowli forest, beside UoH in Hyderabad, was slated for a 400-acre auction for an IT park.
- After student and activist protests, the Supreme Court stayed development; CM Revanth Reddy suggested an eco-park.
- Protesters are UoH students, 80% from outside Telangana, with no personal stake.
| Biodiversity | Count |
|---|---|
| Bird species | 220+ |
| Flowering plants | 734 |
| Reptiles | 15 |
| Mammals | 10 |
Water features: Peacock Lake and Buffalo Lake help sustain West Hyderabad’s groundwater; a 14% loss of green cover can badly cut water retention.
Telangana’s green record
- Telangana Ku Haritha Haram (launched 2015) saw over 273 crore saplings planted; tree cover outside recorded forests up 45.8% in 2015-2021.
- A 10% Green Budget in local bodies and nurseries in every village.
- State GSDP climbed to ₹13.13 lakh crore in 2022-23 from ₹5.05 lakh crore in 2014-15.
Exam angle
- Place: Kancha Gachibowli, Hyderabad.
- Initiative: Telangana Ku Haritha Haram.