Locals protest ‘unscientific' tree translocation

Time of India

11 hours ago

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Guwahati: In a bid to draw attention to the ongoing tree translocation process in Ambari, linked to the upcoming flyover from Noonmati to Dighalipukhuri, hundreds of citizens formed a human chain on Saturday, denouncing the process as unscientific and a breach of public trust.
At the protest site, residents from diverse backgrounds held placards advocating for tree preservation and warning of environmental consequences. To make their demonstration culturally resonant, some participants sang songs by the legendary Bhupen Hazarika.
Santanu Borthakur, a Gauhati high court advocate and local resident, recalled the PIL filed in Nov last year. He said the govt had assured the court under oath that the trees would not be harmed but believes that it has now reneged on its promise.
"It is truly shocking that the govt has gone back on its word. I have repeatedly stressed that local residents must be consulted before undertaking such projects, as their input is just as important as that of experts," Borthakur said.
Another resident, Khanindra Talukdar, voiced concerns over the ecological impact. "What we are doing today is for the benefit of future generations. If these trees are removed, what kind of environment will they inherit? We are not against development, but it should not come at the cost of sacrificing these trees," he said.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The century-old trees that once lined Gopinath Bordoloi Road were mostly relocated during night hours to the backyard of the Ambari Textile Institute to facilitate construction. Now, only a few stripped mature trunks remain, their branches and leaves chopped in preparation for translocation.
Officials from the PWD explained that in a week's time, four to five trees can be translocated, while smaller trees can be relocated quickly, mature ones take longer. "The process begins with trimming and preparing the root ball before shifting the trees. We are working with a consultant from Delhi, who has been overseeing their care. Some translocated trees have already started sprouting new leaves," said Lakhyajyoti Borah, a PWD engineer.
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