'Save City Forest' Calls On The Telangana Government To Halt The Auction Of Kancha Urban Forest In Gachibowli

The Telangana government is facing intense criticism from the 'Save City Forest' movement over its decision to auction 400 acres of dense Kancha Urban Forest in Gachibowli. The forest, an essential part of the University of Hyderabad campus since 1974, has reportedly been transferred to the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) for mixed development, expected to generate ₹28,000 crores in revenue, according to the organization.

In a press release, the group emphasized that auctioning this vital green space is not just about losing trees and wildlife habitat but represents a major setback in efforts to safeguard Hyderabad's environment and biodiversity. They highlighted that the forest has long served as a refuge for around 734 species of flowering plants, 10 species of mammals, 15 species of reptiles, and 220 species of birds.

Apart from its rich biodiversity, the forest also houses key natural features, including Peacock Lake, Buffalo Lake, SR Lake, multiple ponds, and ancient rock formations. The organization warned that if these elements remain undisturbed, they will continue to act as crucial climate regulators-preventing urban flooding, replenishing groundwater, and supporting biodiversity.

With the hashtag #OxygenNotAuction, the movement is urging the Telangana government to:

- Cancel the auction officially
- Halt tree felling immediately
- Conduct a comprehensive Biodiversity Impact Assessment
- Declare the 400-acre Kancha Gachibowli forest as a protected area
- Uphold the public trust doctrine
- Fulfill its Fundamental Duty to safeguard the environment, forests, and wildlife

However, the Telangana State Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC) dismissed environmental concerns, asserting that no encroachment has taken place.

Refuting claims in the media, the corporation clarified that Buffalo and Peacock Lakes are not included in the 400-acre land parcel designated for development. TGIIC further stated that a layout has been designed to preserve significant rock formations, including the well-known Mushroom Rock, by incorporating them as green spaces within the planned development.