26 Jun 2017 | 06:18am IST
Vasco’s tree-lined Swantra Path is a victim of political rivalry
Two years ago several aged Ashoka trees were cut, but replanting drive is yet to be undertaken; MMC chief and ward councillor engaged in blame game
VASCO: The tree-lined avenue of Swantra Path defines the heritage character of Vasco; and some years ago the lane had a line of Ashoka trees adding to the natural beauty of the city planned and originally developed by the then Portuguese rulers.
Until 2015, Swantra Path lane had a line of Ashoka trees, however, after city residents and shopkeepers raised their serious concerns over the falling of several old trees which was also posing danger to the public and property, the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) on the recommendation of the then and current City Councillor Krishna alias Daji Salkar chopped down all such dangerous trees with the promise that new Ashoka trees would be planted during 2015 monsoon season.
Today it is over two years and citizens of the port town have been questioning the delay by MMC in fulfilling its promise.
“We understand that MMC cut down dangerous Ashoka trees to prevent any untoward incident. However, why the council failed to replant new Ashoka trees in place of old ones that were cut is a big mystery. Today the beauty of tree lined avenue of Swantra Path lane has been spoiled and MMC is mute since last two year which is a shame and unexpected,” said Pramod Amonkar, a concerned citizen from Vasco.
When asked why there was delay in replanting trees along Swantra Path, Councillor Daji Salkar said that soon after cutting the aged trees, he approached a private person who agreed to sponsor the replanting of trees and beautify the avenue. “However due to political pressure and interference the project did not materialize,” Salkar said.
“Later, I requested the forest department to sponsor the trees, but here too political influence stalled my proposal,” Salkar said adding, “I am still ready to plant Ashoka trees on Swantra Path lane, provided they (the MMC) don’t stop or interfere.”
On the other hand, MMC Chairperson Deepak Naik said, “It was city councillor Daji Salkar who initiated and cut down the unsafe Ashoka trees from his city ward. We thought and even waited last year with the belief that he would plant new trees but despite assurance, he failed to do. If he is not interested, we are not going to wait for Salkar to take first step and would thus take up tress plantation drive next month.”
