Hundreds of citizens and environmental activists gathered outside the main gate of KBR National Park on April 26 in a peaceful protest against the ongoing H-CITI project and increasing concretization around the park. The demonstration took place from 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM, with protesters raising concerns about the city’s environmental future and the impact of infrastructure projects on this vital green space.
The protest centered on opposition to the flyover and underpass construction currently underway as part of the H-CITI project, along with recent tree-felling activities in and around the park area. Participants held placards and raised slogans under the banner #SAVEKBR, expressing their determination to protect one of Hyderabad’s most important ecological zones from urban development pressures.
Protesters voiced strong concerns about Hyderabad following the same path as other metropolitan cities facing severe environmental degradation. One citizen participating in the demonstration stated, “We do not want Hyderabad to become another Delhi.” This sentiment reflected widespread anxiety among residents about air quality, green cover loss, and the overall livability of the city as infrastructure projects continue to expand.
A major point of contention raised during the protest was the alleged lack of public consultation in the decision-making process. One protester stated, “Without following due norms and without seeking the opinions of the public, the government is proceeding with construction.” Demonstrators demanded that authorities engage with citizens and environmental experts before implementing projects that could have lasting impacts on the city’s ecological balance.
The protesters emphasized that KBR National Park serves as a crucial social and ecological space for Hyderabad residents. The park is a primary destination for families, morning walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts who rely on this green space for recreation and health. Activists argued that the concretization around the park would significantly affect what they described as the city’s lung space, reducing air quality and biodiversity in the surrounding areas.
The demonstration reflects growing citizen activism in Hyderabad regarding urban planning and environmental conservation. Residents reiterated their commitment to protecting the park and expressed willingness to continue their campaign through legal and peaceful means. The protesters have called for a halt to construction activities until proper environmental impact assessments are conducted and public concerns are addressed through transparent consultation processes.
