Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 14: On Sunday evening, hundreds of animal lovers and activists gathered in Andheri for a peaceful candle march to protest the large-scale deforestation in Telangana. The march was in response to the state government's decision to clear nearly 400 acres of forest land near the University of Hyderabad for IT park development. This move has sparked nationwide outrage among environmentalists and wildlife supporters.

Despite a Supreme Court stay on further deforestation, significant damage has already been inflicted on the Kancha Gachibowli forest, home to various species of birds and animals. Protesters voiced their concern over the forced displacement of wildlife and stressed the urgent need for policies prioritizing environmental conservation over rapid urban development.

The march, organized by Roshan Pathak of the Pure Animal Lovers (PAL) Foundation, saw around 500 participants. The protest began at Sardar Jaswant Singh Chandhok Chowk in Lokhandwala and continued from 5 pm to 7 pm. Participants carried candles and posters, demanding the protection of forest lands and wildlife.

Mumbai Police officer and animal rights activist Sudhir Kudalkar, who also took part in the march, shared photos of the event on social media, urging collective action for nature preservation.

Pathak emphasized that the protest was not limited to Telangana but was a broader stand against state governments that overlook the ecological impact of deforestation. "Our protest is against all governments that ignore the environmental cost of deforestation," he said.

Activists called for stricter laws, increased accountability, and greater consultation with environmental experts and local communities before approving development projects that impact forests and biodiversity.