PANAJI
The leafless branches and dry trunk of the 200-year-old banyan tree, which was translocated twice from its native soil at St Inez has sparked concerns about its survival. But, experts have assured that this barren appearance is merely part of a natural shedding cycle and that the tree will soon renew itself with fresh leaves.
Environmentalists explained that the banyan tree is undergoing a rejuvenation process but close monitoring and diligent care is essential to support its growth.
"The tree is about 30 per cent dead but this is not unusual for a Banyan tree to shed leaves at this time of the year. While it looks dry, 70 per cent of the tree remains alive,” green activist Daniel D’Souza said speaking to The Goan.
He, however, highlighted that the tree should have been translocated to Altinho instead of Campal, where the rise in the water table, owing to incessant rainfall this time, deterred its faster growth.
“I was not a part of the project during the translocation. Nevertheless, we are keeping our fingers crossed,” he added.
Founder-trustee of the Vata Foundation Uday Krishna, who closely monitored the tree's translocation, echoed this view. “Banyan trees often lose leaves around this season. The tree seems to be going through the process of shedding leaves and fresh leaves are seen sprouting. In a couple of weeks, the tree should have leaves. The complete health of the tree can be analyzed once the fresh leaves grow,” he expressed.
When asked about the tree's long-term outlook, Krishna explained the importance of post-translocation care. “The tree needs extremely close monitoring. Post-care for at least two summers is very critical. Periodic inspection by qualified botanists is recommended,” he said.
The historic banyan tree had been a point of huge debate and controversy when the Smart City officials uprooted it overnight in April, for the road and sewerage related works at St Inez. It was translocated to Campal parade ground where it was once again uprooted to shift a little distance away.
Environmentalists and locals demanded dedicated care post-translocation while critisizing about the haphazard manner in which it was moved from its native soil.
