It is indeed shocking to note that the Goa cabinet has decided that the iconic coconut palm tree isn’t a tree at all. The decision allows palm trees to be cut without permission from the Forest Department as it will be removed from the purview of the Preservations of Trees Act, 1984.
It is understood that the logic behind the decision is that the definition of a tree is a plant with main trunk and branches but a coconut palm does not fit into this criteria as it has no branches. The coconut tree could now be downgraded to the status of grass if not protected under the regulation. Grass is something that is unwanted and is cut at will.
It must be said that the coconut tree is one of the main identity of the state. It is found almost everywhere along the beaches, in the villages, along the side of the roads and even in the cities. Every part of the coconut tree is of use to human beings. Coconut is used in curries, desserts and for oil. Its sap is turned into vinegar, toddy and Goans famous drink- feni. The husk is used to make mattresses. The wood is used for thatching roofs and even for making small boats. Coconuts are used in worship by offering them to the Gods. Tender coconut water has many health benefits as opposed to aerated drinks which are unhealthy.
Nothing is more Goan than the humble coconut tree. The elegant trees adds to the beauty and greenery of the state. The coconut trees have also featured in several Konkani movies where romantic scenes have been shot around this tree. Instead of protecting the coconut tree the decision will lead to axing of the coconut tree at will. The state of Goa like Kerala is synonymous with coconut trees.
It is understood that the government has reportedly altered the definition of a tree. To qualify as a tree, the trunk must be 10 cm in diameter and one meter tall. Under the earlier specification, the trunk had to be 5 cm diameter and 30 cm tall. The question to be asked is can a state government arbitrarily alter the definition of a tree which is universal in it’s existence? If the coconut tree is allowed to be cut indiscriminately, the beautiful landscape of our state dominated by tall swinging palm trees could drastically change forever. The beach side could be devoid of these elegant trees. Instead of protecting the coconut trees in the state, the government by degrading it’s status will only be allowing the rampant cutting down of this much loved tree.
Instead of greening Goa the government decision will lead to concrete jungles coming up. Coconut trees by the beach play an important role in preventing soil erosion.
The chief minister has reportedly claimed that after certain years a coconut tree is inevitably cut. This is untrue as no Goan will have the heart to cut down a coconut tree which stands tall for several decades. If the coconut tree is not a tree then why is it called so? The state government needs to withdraw the decision to downgrade the coconut tree or it will have far fetching negative impact on the environment in the state.
