Greens see red over conversion of Kazipally to urban forest park

HYDERABAD: Green activists in the city have raised concerns about a part of the Khazipally reserve forest being converted into an urban forest park.
Their statements came at a time when actor Prabhas has decided to hand over Rs 2 crore for the ‘development’ of the forest reserve.
The over 1,600-acre forest is located near Dundigal, 20km away from Hyderabad.Speaking to TOI, Kaajal Maheshwari, representing Citizens for Hyderabad, said: “This is a clear case of destruction in the name of development. Using any space for an urban park will take away space from actual forest area.”
Principal chief conservator of forests Rakesh Dobriyal reassured that no trees would be damaged in the process. “The urban forest will only allow us to add some features, including fencing, that will reinforce and protect the forest,” he said. Officials said that besides fencing, a see-through wall, walking track, view-point and gazebo would be added for the benefit of visitors.
Environmentalist Subba Rao questioned the urban park concept asking that the land being used for these must be mentioned clearly. “Are they bringing additional land under green cover through this initiative or making cosmetic changes to already existing green zones.”