MAPUSA
Citizens of Calangute and activists on Monday have demanded that a banyan tree be replanted at the same spot and gave the builder 15 days to restore the tree at the site or face the ire of the people.
The villagers have also warned that they will use all means, including legal, to ensure that the project does not come at spot if the tree was not replanted at the site.
“We are giving the builder an opportunity to restore and replant the banyan tree within 15 days. If the tree is not restored then we will see that the project will never see the light of the day,” said Premanand Diukar, President of Calangute Constituency Forum.
In bid to save the age-old banyan tree, several villagers gathered and also formed a human chain near the site at Khobravaddo, Calangute.
Historian and heritage activist Prajal Sakhardande was also present at the site.
Describing the chronology of the events that led to collapse of the banyan tree, Diukar said the entire exercise was a “pre-planned” move to destroy the tree.
He said first the builder resorted to systematic excavation of mud around the tree and cutting of its roots.
Secondly, after its fall, a complaint was made by the builder to the deputy collector who immediately issued an order for cutting of the tree.
“We have handed over a memorandum to all authorities. But even after 14 days, no action is forthcoming,” Duikar said.
He further said if the builder fails to restore the tree, then a writ petition will be filed before the High Court.
Speaking on the occasion, heritage activist, Prajal Sakardande said destruction of the environment was happening almost everywhere in the State by way of hill cutting, land filling or eliminating the green cover.
“We need to show people’s power to those who indulge in this massacre. People in large numbers should come and embrace the banyan tree. With people’s strength, we have to restore the tree. Together, we will send a signal that the tree can be replanted,” Sakardande said.
Several others also spoke on the occasion and vowed to fight till the banyan tree is restored at the site.
