Green activists call for an end to encroachment of national park lands
Hyderabad: Hundreds of acres earmarked for national parks in the city are under threat given the rampant encroachment of those exclusive lands. This is raising concerns among environmentalists and local residents. The illegal occupation of protected areas is damaging the ecosystem and endangering wildlife, most of them said.
Environmental activists have reported significant encroachments in Mrugavani National Park and Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park. These parks, home to diverse flora and fauna, are crucial green lungs for the bustling city.
Mahesh Mamindla, a wildlife protection activist, expressed deep concern over the situation.
“The encroachment of our national parks is a serious issue. These parks are vital for maintaining ecological balance and providing a safe haven for wildlife,” he said.
Along with Major Sandeep Khurana (retd) and Dr Donthi Narasimha Reddy, he has been actively involved in efforts to protect national parks and have called for stricter enforcement of laws against the land sharks.
“At Mahavir Harina Vanasthali National Park, thousands of acres have been encroached. Apartment complexes, housing colonies and even an engineering college have been set up on these encroached lands”, Mamindla said.
Speaking about KBR Park, he said “The park is an eco-sensitive zone. GHMC has been planning to construct an underground tunnel roadway. This will endanger the entire ecosystem of the park, and the surroundings. The government should put an end to these illegal activities. We must preserve natural spaces for the future generations.”
Activists argue that more needs to be done to ensure long-term protection of national parks. As the city continues to grow, protecting these green spaces is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the city in order to ensure quality of life.