SC order: Ban on tree cutting in Hyderabad.

Hyderabad tree felling dispute: Supreme Court says 'stop', gives strict warning on environment

The Supreme Court has given a major decision in the ongoing tree cutting case in Hyderabad. The court has ordered a complete ban on all construction activities and tree cutting till the next hearing. This decision is considered important from the point of view of environmental protection, especially when trees are being cut at a rapid pace in many parts of the country. Read more on Vaartha

SC order: Ban on tree cutting in Hyderabad.
SC order: Ban on tree cutting in Hyderabad.

How did the case start?

Thousands of trees were planned to be cut down as part of an ambitious road expansion project in Hyderabad. The plan was part of the Telangana government's urban development program. However, when locals, environmentalists, and civil organizations came to know about the plan, they strongly opposed it. Learn more about the case at Vaartha.

Following protests, public hearings, and petitions, the case reached the Supreme Court, where petitioners argued that the project violates environmental laws and could worsen the climate crisis in the future.

Strong comment of Supreme Court

During the hearing, the bench of Justices remarked in a harsh tone and said:
“Trees are not just wood. They are the source of water, air, and life. If greenery is destroyed in the name of development, then who will have the future?”

Public consultation is necessary.

• There should be an environmental impact assessment report.

• It is important to consider alternative routes first.

What is the interim SC order of the court?

The court has currently given an order to maintain the status quo. This means:

• No new trees will be cut.

• There will be no construction or expansion activity on the land.

• If any construction is going on, it should be stopped immediately.
  This SC order will remain effective until the Court gives its final verdict in the next hearing. Follow the updates in Vaartha.

Environmental perspectives

This decision has come at a time when concerns about climate change and environmental degradation are increasing in the country and the world. The Supreme Court clearly said that:

• Forests and trees are not just for beauty.

• They are sources of water, air purifiers, and protectors of biodiversity.

• Cutting trees without thinking is like an “Environmental Crime.”

Arguments of the petitioners

The lawyers and environmental groups that filed the petition told the court that:

• Hyderabad is already a victim of the heat island effect.

• The temperature is increasing every year.

• More than 5,000 old, shady, and life-giving trees were to be cut down for the project.

• He also said that the government did not consider possibilities like alternative routes or elevated corridors.

Government's clarification

The state government defended the project, saying:

• This plan has been made to reduce traffic congestion.

• All necessary environmental clearances have been obtained.
  However, the court told the government that approval alone is not enough, accountability, and transparency are also necessary.

Reaction from the general public and activists

This decision of the court has been termed as “natural justice” on social media.
Many said, “Development is necessary but it must be implemented responsibly.”
Environmental activists welcomed the court's decision and called it a positive precedent for the future. Read related reactions at Vaartha.

Opinion of experts

Environmental experts say:

• A country like India will now have to move towards “Nature Positive Development”.

• Governments will have to strike a balance between development and greenery.

• Such decisions will help bring nature to the center stage in policy-making.

When is the next hearing?

The Supreme Court has directed to hold the next hearing of the case within two weeks. Till then the status quo will be maintained and a detailed report has been sought from the state government.