Order of the Supreme Court regarding tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli forest, Telangana, 03/04/2025
Order of the Supreme Court in the matter of tree felling in Kancha Gachibowli forest, Telangana. The bench of Justice B R Gavai and Justice Augustine George Masih passed the order, April 3, 2025.
Amicus Curiae brought the court's attention to the news item dated April 2, 2025 published in various newspapers. The newspaper reports said that vast deforestation is being carried out in the Kancha Gachibowli forest. It showed that a large number of trees are being felled. The news items showed that the authorities, taking advantage of long holidays over the weekend, have rushed through in felling the trees. Additionally, the forest is said to be home to eight species of scheduled animals.
The Supreme Court directed the Registrar (Judicial) of the High Court of Telangana to visit the site in question and submit its interim report. The SC further directed the Chief Secretary of the state of Telangana to ensure that until further orders are passed by the court, no tree felling should be permitted in the Kancha Gachibowli forest area.
The Registrar (Judicial) of the Supreme Court was directed to communicate the order to the Chief Secretary, Telangana "who shall act upon it without delay".