Wed Apr 16 07:51:48 UTC 2025: ## Supreme Court Halts Telangana Deforestation, Orders Environmental Restoration
**New Delhi, April 16, 2025** – The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday expressed deep concern over the extensive deforestation carried out by the Telangana government near the University of Hyderabad. The court issued a stay order prohibiting any further tree felling in the Kancha Gachibowli area, following a suo motu cognizance taken on April 3rd.
The court’s action comes after protests from University of Hyderabad students against the government’s plan to develop 400 acres of forested land bordering the campus. The Justices questioned the state government’s haste in clearing the land, noting the significant environmental damage and distress caused to wildlife. Videos showing animals fleeing the area were cited as evidence of the urgency of the situation.
The court directed the Telangana wildlife warden to immediately implement measures to protect remaining wildlife. The justices emphasized their commitment to environmental protection, stating they would “go out of the way” to ensure the ecological integrity of the area.
The Telangana government has been ordered to submit a detailed plan for the restoration of at least 100 acres of the affected land. The next hearing is scheduled for May 15th, with the court explicitly stating that no further tree felling will be permitted until then.
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