Civil Liberties leader G. Haragopal, Telangana Political JAC (TJAC) chairman Prof. Kodandaram and educationist and MLC Chukka Ramaiah on Sunday demanded immediate steps to preserve the pristine environs of KVBR Botanical Garden and halt the activities meant for commercial exploitation of the 274 acre forest land.
They joined the protests organised by the Botanical Garden Walkers’ Association on Sunday morning and criticised the way in which the government departments sought to destroy the natural environs and pave the way for commercial activities in the guise of eco-tourism.
Prof. Kodandaram demanded a public hearing by the Pollution Control Board on the issue and said if the government failed to initiate steps to preserve the sprawling garden and its natural flora and fauna, the JAC would consider protest public meetings.
False information
Prof. Haragopal took exception to the way government officials were indulging in spreading false information by saying that the forest land here was barren and a rocky terrain while it had scores of trees and a host of species.
Agitations start when people feel injustice has been done to them, he said adding, “We appeal to the government to stall the works immediately. Else, we will launch agitation”.
Mr. Ramaiah said the government was now trying to steal public properties and deprive the citizens of the much-needed green space.
He also asked the officials to desist from giving divergent views on the status of the garden and instead try to protect the place.
Members of the Walkers’ Association listed out the efforts being made to take away the sprawling acreages of Botanical Garden and turn into a concrete jungle with permanent structures.
