Killing trees cannot be OK in civilised society

Drilled holes visible at the bottom of the tree

A 40-year-old tree in Vile Parle East was found with holes drilled at its roots. This prompted a local to write a letter to the K-East ward office as well as the Vile Parle police station demanding action against those responsible.

A report in this paper stated that residents in the vicinity were shocked at the sight. They claimed the tree was fine a fortnight ago. Some irked residents called for stringent punishment stating that the case must become a landmark so that the next time someone contemplates such an act, they will be forced into a hard rethink.

A BMC Gardens Department official did say the police have been intimated. There has been a denial from one officer though. Going beyond that, it is vital we tackle the bigger issue of trees being hacked or destroyed in different parts of the city.

Several times, this is for improving the visibility of a building, a hoarding/billboard or a commercial venture. There is a tendency to simply dismiss this as overall unimportant in the larger scheme of things. Sometimes, there are concerned citizens but they feel helpless as they do not know the procedure or whom to contact in such cases.

Now, it is time for BMC to undertake a thorough investigation. There can even be a signboard put as to what has been found at the site, how this has happened and stringent punishment cited for similar action at other spots.

In fact, a concerted campaign about how trees are killed, what can be done to stop this, how it is an offence inviting punishment will raise a great deal of awareness. The go green mantra must also include an aspect where saving and preserving trees is of utmost import.