It is seen that road-widening is taking place at several locations across Goa for which several roadside trees are being cut. Road-widening may be necessary given the fact that there is an increase of traffic on these roads.
But in all this, age-old trees have become the victims as they are being cut down with impunity. The recent cutting down of age-old heritage trees in Siolim by the authorities raised a hue and cry from concerned citizens.
Development and a healthy environment can go hand in hand. Tree translocation is the answer. Tree translocation is not a new process by any means.
As the construction for the Hyderabad Metro Rail project started, a translocation company pitched in to translocate the trees falling on the proposed track. Though planting new trees is important, translocating is also a practical and viable practice as these trees regrow in just four or five years.
Small trees will take decades to attain their full size, however transplanted trees are quick ready-made trees. The Goa government needs to consider the option of hiring the services of tree transplanting companies from other States instead of cutting down trees with impunity.
