When should a housing society in Mumbai start considering re...
From GST on JDAs to SEBI’s REIT reclassification and the S...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
Stay ahead in the world of real estate with our daily podcas...
The Telangana government has reversed its decision to demolish the Kancha Gachibowli site and will now develop it into one of the world's largest eco-parks. This plan includes land from the University of Hyderabad, which may relocate to the upcoming Future City in exchange for 100 acres and INR 1,000 crore. The eco-park will feature biodiversity zones, observatories, green trails, and wildlife habitats, designed using a micro-ecosystem approach. Environmentalists, students, and conservationists will oversee the project. While the initiative promises ecological value, it has sparked controversy over land allocation, with student bodies voicing strong opposition to the university's proposed displacement.
The Telangana government will now transform the Kancha Gachibowli site-once on the brink of complete demolition-into an expansive eco-park. Acting on the Supreme Court's directive, the Telangana government reversed its earlier decision and announced plans to develop what could become one of the largest eco-parks globally, showcasing distinctive biodiversity and natural habitats. The project will incorporate land from the University of Hyderabad (UoH), as the institution plays a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life.
The state had initially intended to auction off 400 acres of land, triggering public outrage. Residents, students, environmental activists, and nature advocates strongly opposed the move, prompting the government to reconsider its strategy. In response, authorities proposed a new plan that would encompass approximately 2,000 acres, including the UoH campus, to develop the eco-park. To facilitate this transition, the government will request the university to relocate to the upcoming Future City on the outskirts of Hyderabad. In exchange, the university will receive 100 acres of land and a financial package of INR 1,000 crore to establish a new campus.
The eco-park aims to become a leading ecological tourism hub, drawing inspiration from celebrated urban green spaces across the globe. It will feature one of the tallest observatories, complete with multiple observation decks. Planners aim to adopt a micro-ecosystem strategy, considering local soil conditions and biodiversity. The park will include designated conservation zones, extensive tree plantations, and green recreational facilities such as cycling tracks, walking trails, and eco-sensitive visitor areas. Additional attractions will include a bird park, butterfly garden, turtle habitat, and open-air fitness spaces.
A governing council comprising environmental experts, academics, student representatives, and conservationists will oversee the project. The University of Hyderabad will hold administrative responsibility for managing the eco-park's operations. However, the student union raised concerns regarding the proposed land swap, arguing that exchanging 1,600 acres for 100 acres was unjust. They highlighted their ongoing resistance to the relocation plan, asserting their commitment to protecting university grounds. Meanwhile, environmental supporters highlighted the urgency of conservation, noting that significant damage had already occurred due to the felling of numerous trees.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023