Kancha Gachibowli Mega Eco Park Plan Sparks Uproar
In a surprising turn of events, the Telangana government has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop one of the world’s largest eco parks in Kancha Gachibowli, Hyderabad. Spanning 2,000 acres, this green dream is aimed at transforming the urban landscape with sustainability at its core. But as grand as the vision is, the plan has ignited fierce protests, legal roadblocks, and a rising tide of public concern.
At the heart of the controversy? The proposed relocation of the University of Hyderabad (UoH)—a prestigious educational institution currently occupying part of the land.
Let’s dive into what’s really going on.
Kancha Gachibowli: The Green Lung of Hyderabad
Tucked away in the heart of the bustling tech corridor of Hyderabad, Kancha Gachibowli is an unexpected oasis of greenery, biodiversity, and natural tranquility. Unlike the towering IT buildings and modern infrastructure that define most of Gachibowli, this unique patch of forested land offers a refreshing contrast — one that holds ecological, cultural, and community significance.
A Hidden Forest in the Urban Jungle
Kancha Gachibowli is a rare and protected green zone nestled amidst residential layouts and tech parks. Despite rapid urban expansion, this forested pocket has managed to preserve its natural charm and serves as a vital ecological buffer. It is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna that have adapted to coexist in this unique urban-wild interface.
Rich Biodiversity
One of the highlights of Kancha Gachibowli is its biodiversity. It shelters several indigenous plant species, medicinal herbs, and old-growth trees. The area is also known for being the habitat of the Hyderabad tree trunk spider — a rare and endemic species not found anywhere else in the world. Birdwatchers often spot the vibrant Indian roller, Telangana’s state bird, along with other native birds like peacocks and parakeets.
Deer, rabbits, and small reptiles make occasional appearances, and various butterfly species flutter through the undergrowth, adding life and color to the trails. The quiet forest is not just a haven for wildlife, but also for nature lovers and walkers looking for solitude within the city limits.
Environmental Importance
Kancha Gachibowli plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance in this rapidly developing region. It helps in groundwater recharge, reduces air pollution, and lowers the overall temperature in its surroundings. With increasing concerns about sustainability and green spaces disappearing, this forested area stands as a symbol of what must be preserved.
A Community Asset
Efforts are now being made to recognize and protect this area through conservation drives, awareness campaigns, and eco-tourism initiatives. Local groups, environmentalists, and residents are pushing to ensure that Kancha Gachibowli remains untouched by concrete development.
Kancha Gachibowli is not just a forest — it’s Hyderabad’s natural heritage and a crucial part of its future. In a city driven by technology and growth, this green sanctuary reminds us of the delicate balance between progress and preservation.
From Land Auction to Green Ambition
Originally, the government planned to auction 400 acres of prime land in Kancha Gachibowli. This move was immediately met with a storm of opposition. Student unions, environmental activists, and civil society raised red flags, worried about the impact on biodiversity and the potential eviction of UoH.
The backlash reached the Supreme Court, which swiftly stepped in to halt all activity—including tree felling—on the site. The Court’s suo motu intervention not only froze the auction but also demanded clarification from the Telangana government about its intentions.
In response, the state made a bold pivot: instead of selling, they would build a world-class eco park.
What Will the Eco Park Include?
According to official sources, the eco park isn’t just going to be a patch of green land—it’s set to become a nature-rich destination packed with innovative features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Observatories | Offering panoramic views of Hyderabad’s skyline and natural beauty. |
| Walking Trails | Encouraging mindful walks and nature exploration. |
| Wildlife Zones | Safe havens for local fauna and endangered species. |
| Butterfly Gardens | Vibrant spaces designed to attract and conserve butterfly populations. |
| Open-Air Gyms | Fitness meets fresh air with eco-friendly exercise setups. |
| Turtle Park | A rare initiative for turtle conservation and awareness. |
The state plans to invest INR 1,000 crore in the project and implement a “micro-ecosystem” model. This includes planting diverse trees, studying soil profiles, and preserving existing biodiversity. International environmental experts will guide the design, while scientists, students, and activists will form a governing council for the park.
Sounds utopian, right? Not for everyone.
University of Hyderabad: At the Center of the Storm
One of the most controversial elements of the eco park plan is the relocation of UoH to the proposed “Future City” on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The government has allocated 100 acres and another INR 1,000 crore for building a new campus.
But UoH students and faculty aren’t having it.
“We are fighting a battle for our land and university. We won’t allow it to leave so readily,” said Umesh Ambedkar, president of the UoH Students’ Union. Many fear the loss of the university’s historical, ecological, and academic legacy tied to its current location.
Adding fuel to the fire is the deforestation already underway in the area, which students say is damaging ecosystems and setting a dangerous precedent for future development.
Supreme Court Steps In Again
The judiciary has been playing a vital role in this unfolding drama. The Supreme Court has once again come into the picture, asking for an explanation from the Telangana government about its urgency in clearing forested land.
The Court has also directed the Central Empowered Committee to visit the disputed site and submit a report by April 16.
To maintain law and order, Cyberabad Police have restricted public entry into the 400-acre parcel near UoH until the same date.
What’s at Stake?
This conflict raises some serious questions:
- Can urban development truly coexist with ecological preservation?
- Should educational institutions be displaced in the name of green growth?
- Is this eco park an act of environmental responsibility—or just a greenwashed land grab?
On one hand, the eco park promises jobs, tourism, and environmental innovation. On the other, it threatens to erase heritage, disrupt lives, and harm biodiversity if not executed thoughtfully.
What’s Next?
All eyes are on the April 16 report by the Central Empowered Committee. Until then, students, environmentalists, and policymakers remain locked in a tense standoff.
Meanwhile, the government is expected to release detailed design plans and initiate public consultations to regain some public trust. Whether this massive green venture turns into a model for sustainable development—or a cautionary tale—remains to be seen.
Final Thoughts: Can Development Be Truly Green?
The Telangana government’s vision of building one of the world’s largest eco parks is both ambitious and inspiring. But good intentions alone can’t justify poor planning or disregard for existing institutions and ecosystems.
Transparency, collaboration, and genuine ecological commitment are crucial moving forward.
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