Supreme Court Directs Telangana Government to Propose Tree Restoration Plan

The Supreme Court has instructed the Telangana government to present a detailed plan for the restoration of the Kanch Gachibowli forest area within six weeks. The court emphasized the importance of replanting felled trees and balancing development with environmental conservation. This directive follows concerns over premeditated tree felling near Hyderabad University. The government is urged to ensure that wildlife interests are considered in its development projects. Failure to comply could lead to serious consequences for officials involved. Read on for more details about this significant ruling.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 13, 2025, 13:40 IST

Supreme Court's Directive on Forest Restoration

On Wednesday, the Supreme Court granted the Telangana government a six-week period to submit a comprehensive proposal for the restoration of the Kanch Gachibowli forest area, emphasizing the need for replanting the felled trees.

The bench, led by Chief Justice B. R. Gavai and Justice K. Vinod Chandran, stated that the forest area must be restored. They clarified that while they are not opposed to development, environmental protection is paramount.

The court postponed the hearing for six weeks, reiterating its stance that it supports development as long as it is sustainable.

While engaging in developmental activities, it is essential to consider the interests of the environment and wildlife, and to ensure compensatory measures are in place. The court expressed its willingness to welcome any proposal from the government that aligns with these principles.

Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing the Telangana government, mentioned that the state is considering a holistic proposal aimed at balancing environmental and wildlife interests with developmental projects.

Previously, on May 15, the Supreme Court remarked that the tree felling near Hyderabad University appeared to be premeditated. The court warned the Telangana government to restore the area, or face potential imprisonment for its officials.

The Chief Justice indicated that it is the government's responsibility to restore the forest or risk sending its officials to jail. The Supreme Court had taken suo motu cognizance of the deforestation activities in the Kanch Gachibowli area and ordered a status quo until further notice on April 3.

On April 16, the court reprimanded the Telangana government for the hasty actions leading to tree felling and instructed that if the government wishes to protect its chief secretary from serious repercussions, it must present a detailed plan to restore 100 acres of deforested land.