In a significant policy shift, the Telangana government has unveiled plans to transform approximately 2,000 acres of land in Kancha Gachibowli into what is being touted as one of the world's largest eco parks. This expansive project encompasses land currently occupied by the University of Hyderabad (UoH), proposing the relocation of the university to a newly envisioned "Future City" on Hyderabad's outskirts.
The government's decision follows the cancellation of an earlier plan to auction 400 acres in the same area, a move prompted by mounting pressure from student groups, environmental activists, and intervention from the Supreme Court.
Read more: US tightens Green Card rules: What it means for post-marriage travel plans
Genesis of the Eco Park initiativeAt first, 400 acres of land at Kancha Gachibowli were to be put up for auction by the state government. However, a number of stakeholders, particularly student organizations and environmentalists, strongly opposed this idea, citing worries about possible ecological harm and the relocation of educational institutions. The government's initial intentions were further complicated by the Supreme Court's suo motu intervention, which stopped all activity on the property, including tree-felling. The Telangana government changed its approach in response to these difficulties and the national government's request for clarification regarding the planned land auction next to UoH.
Vision for the Eco ParkThe reimagined plan involves converting the entire 2,000-acre area into an eco park designed to rival some of the world's largest urban green spaces. According to government sources, the park will feature a range of attractions and facilities, including:
Observatories: Tall structures offering panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas.
Walking trails: Paths designed to encourage pedestrian exploration of the park's natural beauty.
Wildlife zones: Designated areas aimed at conserving local fauna and providing habitats for various species.
Butterfly gardens: Specialized gardens to attract and nurture butterfly populations, enhancing biodiversity.
Open-air gyms: Fitness facilities set in natural surroundings to promote health and wellness.
Turtle park: A dedicated space for the conservation and study of turtle species.
To build the environmental park, an estimated Rs 1,000 crore will be required. The government plans to adopt a "micro-ecosystem" idea to plant a range of tree types, study soil profiles, and protect biodiversity. International environmental experts will contribute to the initiative's design, and scientists, students, and environmentalists will form the governing council.
Relocation of the University of Hyderabad
The projected relocation of the University of Hyderabad is a major and controversial feature of the eco park concept. With an investment of INR 1,000 crore and 100 acres set aside for the new campus, the government plans to relocate the university to the "Future City" that is being proposed on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Members of the university community have opposed this plan. The plan was challenged by Umesh Ambedkar, president of the UoH Students' Union, who said, "We are fighting a battle for our land and university. We won't allow it to leave so readily." Students have also drawn attention to the obvious ecological harm brought about by the region's recent deforestation efforts.
Read more: 6 safe travel destinations for F-1 Visa holders in 2025
Judicial and public responseThe Supreme Court has played a pivotal role in this unfolding situation by staying further activity on the disputed land and seeking a response from the Telangana government regarding the urgency of clearing tree cover near the university. The Court has also directed the Central Empowered Committee to inspect the site and submit a report before April 16. Meanwhile, the Cyberabad Police have restricted public entry into the 400-acre land parcel near UoH, citing law and order concerns, with the restriction remaining in force until April 16.
The government's decision follows the cancellation of an earlier plan to auction 400 acres in the same area, a move prompted by mounting pressure from student groups, environmental activists, and intervention from the Supreme Court.
Read more: US tightens Green Card rules: What it means for post-marriage travel plans
Genesis of the Eco Park initiativeAt first, 400 acres of land at Kancha Gachibowli were to be put up for auction by the state government. However, a number of stakeholders, particularly student organizations and environmentalists, strongly opposed this idea, citing worries about possible ecological harm and the relocation of educational institutions. The government's initial intentions were further complicated by the Supreme Court's suo motu intervention, which stopped all activity on the property, including tree-felling. The Telangana government changed its approach in response to these difficulties and the national government's request for clarification regarding the planned land auction next to UoH.
Vision for the Eco ParkThe reimagined plan involves converting the entire 2,000-acre area into an eco park designed to rival some of the world's largest urban green spaces. According to government sources, the park will feature a range of attractions and facilities, including:
Observatories: Tall structures offering panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas.
Walking trails: Paths designed to encourage pedestrian exploration of the park's natural beauty.
Wildlife zones: Designated areas aimed at conserving local fauna and providing habitats for various species.
Butterfly gardens: Specialized gardens to attract and nurture butterfly populations, enhancing biodiversity.
Open-air gyms: Fitness facilities set in natural surroundings to promote health and wellness.
Turtle park: A dedicated space for the conservation and study of turtle species.
To build the environmental park, an estimated Rs 1,000 crore will be required. The government plans to adopt a "micro-ecosystem" idea to plant a range of tree types, study soil profiles, and protect biodiversity. International environmental experts will contribute to the initiative's design, and scientists, students, and environmentalists will form the governing council.
Relocation of the University of Hyderabad
The projected relocation of the University of Hyderabad is a major and controversial feature of the eco park concept. With an investment of INR 1,000 crore and 100 acres set aside for the new campus, the government plans to relocate the university to the "Future City" that is being proposed on the outskirts of Hyderabad. Members of the university community have opposed this plan. The plan was challenged by Umesh Ambedkar, president of the UoH Students' Union, who said, "We are fighting a battle for our land and university. We won't allow it to leave so readily." Students have also drawn attention to the obvious ecological harm brought about by the region's recent deforestation efforts.
Read more: 6 safe travel destinations for F-1 Visa holders in 2025
Judicial and public responseThe Supreme Court has played a pivotal role in this unfolding situation by staying further activity on the disputed land and seeking a response from the Telangana government regarding the urgency of clearing tree cover near the university. The Court has also directed the Central Empowered Committee to inspect the site and submit a report before April 16. Meanwhile, the Cyberabad Police have restricted public entry into the 400-acre land parcel near UoH, citing law and order concerns, with the restriction remaining in force until April 16.
You may also like
Iran's Vice President for Parliamentary Affairs sacked for 'extravagant holiday'
We will free the country from Naxalism by March: Amit Shah
Flipkart Expands Quick Commerce Play With 200 Dark Stores: Report
Amadou Bagayoko dead: Amadou & Mariam musician dies after long illness
Four held for consuming drugs at lodge in Kerala
