“We are here to raise our voices against the proposed destruction of the Damagundam Forest in Vikarabad District, and we won’t back down. The government’s approval to build the Very Low Frequency (VLF) Radar Center on this land threatens the loss of 12 lakh trees, 2,900 acres of forest, and the biodiversity that sustains 60,000 people across 20 villages. How can we let that happen?

The Damagundam Forest is rich in biodiversity. Over 100 species of birds, leopards, and even endangered tigers and elephants call it home. These animals have shared this land with local communities for generations. We’re not just fighting for trees—we’re fighting for our right to coexist with this biodiversity. This forest provides rare medicinal plants, supports grazing lands for our cattle, and ensures steady rainfall for our crops. If they destroy it, they’re not just taking away the trees; they’re destroying our farms, our water supply, and our ability to live peacefully. Soil erosion, flooding, crop failure—these are the futures we face if this forest falls.

We’re here, standing together in Hyderabad at Dharna Chowk, because we know we can’t fight this alone. People need to wake up to the long-term consequences of this project. It’s not just about one forest or one district—it’s about our future. Hyderabad itself could face severe flooding if deforestation goes ahead. We can’t afford that kind of destruction.

We are calling for transparency, consultation, and an independent environmental assessment before any further step is taken. We urge everyone to join us in this fight—whether by raising awareness, spreading our message, or urging the authorities to reconsider. Protecting this forest is not just our responsibility—it’s everyone’s. Together, we can ensure that development doesn’t come at the cost of our environment and community well-being.

This forest must survive. We must survive. And we won’t stop until we do.”