SC Slams Telangana Over Forest Felling Can't Bulldoze Nature Overnight

The Supreme Court has halted further tree cutting in Telangana’s Kancha Gachibowli forest, criticising the State for clearing over 400 acres "overnight with bulldozers" under the guise of development.

The felling, allegedly done over a long weekend across 400 acres for an IT project under TGIIC, was protested as the area is an eco-sensitive zone.

The Court invoked environmental protections, paused further felling via an interim stay, and ordered a status quo. 

The Court directed the Central Empowered Committee to inspect the site. The State must clarify if permissions were obtained and justify any urgency under environmental law.