HYDERABAD: The state government has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court affirming its commitment to develop the Kancha Gachibowli land in a sustainable and environmentally responsible manner, fully aligned with applicable legal and ecological standards.
The affidavit explained how the Telangana Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (TGIIC), which is overseeing the master plan for the area, is prioritising the conservation of ecologically and historically significant landmarks. Specific protective measures are being taken to preserve features such as the iconic Mushroom Rock.
TGIIC has also pledged to safeguard Chilakala Kunta, ensuring the maintenance of a buffer zone up to full tank level (FTL) to protect the water body and its surrounding ecosystem.
These assurances were made in the affidavit submitted by Chief Secretary K Ramakrishna Rao, ahead of a scheduled hearing in the Supreme Court on Thursday before a bench led by Chief Justice BR Gavai. The case pertains to alleged ecological damage in 400 acres within the Kancha Gachibowli area.
According to the affidavit, TGIIC is identifying, marking and preserving all non-exempt trees in the development area. In instances where in-situ preservation is not feasible, the agency will relocate and rehabilitate the trees following scientific and ecological guidelines.
“As part of its environmental stewardship, TGIIC will intensify compensatory plantation efforts related to the current development. These plantations will not only offset any loss of trees but will also enhance the area’s green cover and ecological resilience,” the affidavit states.
Preparing master plan
The state government further informed the court that it is preparing a comprehensive and sustainable master plan for the entire 2,374-acre parcel of land in Survey No. 25, reiterating that the entire area, including the contested 400 acres, belongs to the government.
“It is legally significant that no alienation, title transfer, or conveyance deed was ever executed in favour of the University of Hyderabad. The 1975 permission granted to the university was solely for functional use and did not alter the land’s ownership status. The government retains full title and ownership, and the university has merely been a permissive occupier without any legal claim that could hinder the government’s right to resume or repurpose the land,” the affidavit pointed out.
The government also rejected claims that the land constitutes forest land. It stated, “The assertion that the area is a ‘deemed forest’ is factually incorrect. If that were the case, the entire 2,374-acre tract, including existing university infrastructure such as buildings and helipads, would be in violation of forest and environmental regulations.”
The affidavit said that denying development in this region would significantly impede Telangana’s ability to attract investments, generate employment and solidify its role as a national technology hub. It emphasised that the current development proposal is not a sudden move, but part of a long-standing administrative process, undertaken in the larger public interest.