'We are coming to power in 3 years; will take back this land': KTR warns investors against buying Kancha Gachibowli land

Hyderabad: BRS Working President KT Rama Rao has warned investors against purchasing land at Kancha Gachibowli.

This comes as the government readies to auction 400 acres of land at Kancha Gachibowli.

KTR was speaking to express solidarity with the Hyderabad Central University students.

"In 3 years, we are coming to power. This is not a claim, it's a certainty. Let this be a final warning well in advance: if anyone dares to buy even an inch of land in this 400-acre area, know this - we will take it back. No force can stop us. This land belongs to Hyderabad, and we will transform it into the city's grandest eco-park, a legacy for generations to come,” KTR said.

He noted that there is no room for negotiation. "No second thoughts. This is a battle for Hyderabad’s future, and we will stand with every single person fighting for it. Ignore this warning at your own risk - because when the time comes, don’t say you weren’t told," he said.

These are KCR's words and BRS’s stand on this issue, he added.

Meanwhile, students claimed that a midnight bulldozing operation was launched to flatten HCU’s greenery under heavy police cover. This is even though the High Court has asked the state government to pause all destruction at the Kancha Gachibowli. Felling of trees was being carried out since 2 AM.

The court will hear two petitions challenging the state government today.

Importance of Kancha Gachibowli’s urban green cover

Kancha Gachibowli is one of the few remaining urban forests in Hyderabad.

This habitat hosts a wide range of birds and animals. There are approximately 237 species of birds on the campus. It’s one among the few urban forest areas that houses Spotted Deer, Wild Boars, Star Tortoises and numerous snake species such as Indian Rock Python, Vipers, Cobras, Boas and Kraits.

Telangana government claimed that the 400 acres of land belonged to the state. The government intends to develop world-class infrastructure in this government land through the TGIIC. It is preparing to invite tenders for the integrated development of this land.

Over the last three days, more than 40 JCBs were deployed to clear the area, disturbing the habitat. Following this, University of Hyderabad Students Union members went on a protest against the development and some of them were arrested too.

On Wednesday morning, a scuffle broke out between the police, the students and the faculty when they were marching towards the East Campus, raising slogans to stop the JCBS and go back.

Ministry of Environment issues notice to Telangana government

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change directed the additional secretary (Forests) of Telangana to take legal action under the provisions of the Indian Forest Act and ensure no violation of any acts at the Hyderabad Central University.

In the letter, the ministry has requested the state government to provide a factual report on the issue immediately.