Nature lovers plan protests to save Chevella banyans

Nature lovers in Hyderabad gathered to discuss the next steps in their ongoing campaign to save the Chevella banyans. During the meeting, members considered organising a protest at Dharna Chowk to pressure the government into addressing the urgent need for action.
Currently, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to conduct an environmental impact assessment (EIA) to minimise tree loss due to the expansion of National Highway 163 between Hyderabad and Bijapur. The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change has been given four months to issue terms of reference and complete the assessment process.
As the deadline approaches, the group is determined to protect the Chevella banyans. One member highlighted that they were invited to meet with the Chief Minister in Telangana but the interaction has not yet taken place. They remain hopeful, planning to escalate their protests and campaigns to bring the issue to the government’s attention.
During the meeting, a five-minute film was shown, documenting their years-long fight to protect the banyans. One of the youngest members proposed engaging with local villagers to explain the environmental consequences of tree loss and encourage their participation in the campaign. The group also discussed plans to amplify their message by tagging Central ministers in social media posts about the Chevella banyans.
Natasha Ramarathnam, a volunteer, noted that despite filing an RTI request regarding the situation of the banyans, they have yet to receive a response. She stated that the group is preparing to file another RTI, as part of their efforts to hold authorities accountable and protect the endangered trees.