MARGAO: In the wake of a tragic incident involving a falling tree branch, the South Goa District Collector’s office has directed relevant authorities to undertake the identification and pruning of hazardous trees throughout the year, expanding their efforts beyond the traditional pre-monsoon activities. This decision came following a special meeting convened in Margao on Friday.
Chaired by Additional Collector Dipak Desai, the meeting also established a panel comprising government officials and NGOs to promptly identify dangerous trees and compile a comprehensive list.
During the meeting, it came to light that the rotten tree branch that recently killed a Sarzora woman travelling on a two-wheeler had not been included in the list of identified hazardous trees. The 49-year-old woman died instantly, while her daughter, who was riding pillion, was injured.
The meeting, attended by representatives from 13 relevant departments, focused on addressing the issue of dangerous trees, particularly along the National Highway in Salcete taluka.
Following the meeting, Savio D’Silva, President of the South Goa District Congress Committee, expressed satisfaction with the action plan initiated by the Collector’s office. He stated, “We have been informed that the tree whose branch caused the accident was not among the 104 dangerous trees identified by the authorities. Instructions have been issued to the concerned departments to trim or remove these hazardous trees from the roadside.”
Meanwhile, Moreno Rebello, a Congress leader, emphasised that it is not only dangerous trees but also poor road conditions that contribute to accidents and loss of life.
“After careful deliberation, we have established a panel, which includes representation from NGOs. This panel will visit the sites, identify dangerous trees, and compile a list for the concerned departments to trim or remove,” said Addl Collector Desai.
He also pointed out that various technical reasons, including trees on private properties, have hindered the trimming of dangerous trees along Salcete’s roads. However, he assured that progress is being made, with 104 trees already identified for removal or trimming.