Residents call for inspection of ageing roadside trees
MAPUSA
A large branch of an age-old banyan tree came crashing down on the busy Siolim-Marna road on Wednesday, disrupting traffic for over an hour and leaving two college students with minor injuries.
The incident occurred during the afternoon hours when the stretch witnesses considerable vehicular movement. Eyewitnesses said the branch suddenly snapped and fell onto the middle of the carriageway, giving motorists little time to react. Two college students travelling on a two-wheeler were caught in the incident and sustained minor injuries after losing balance when the branch struck the road ahead of them.
Passers-by rushed to their aid and shifted them to a nearby medical facility for treatment. Personnel from the Mapusa Fire Service were alerted immediately and reached the spot. The fire team cleared the fallen branch from the road, restoring vehicular movement after a brief disruption.
Traffic police also assisted in regulating vehicles during the clearance operation. Local residents expressed concern over the presence of several ageing trees along the stretch.
“This road is used daily by students and office-goers. Authorities should conduct a proper inspection of old trees and remove dangerous branches before they fall,” a local shopkeeper said.
The incident has once again highlighted the need for regular maintenance and safety audits of roadside trees, particularly along busy routes.
