The picturesque tree cover that lends beauty to the capital city of Panjim is facing an alarming threat as numerous trees are being slowly killed by the indiscriminate use of nails, wires, and banners. These acts of vandalism, carried out in the name of public awareness, are causing irreversible damage to the trees that contribute to the city’s identity and serve as vital components of the ecosystem.
The trees, akin to silent witnesses, bear the scars of nails driven into their trunks, wires wound around their branches, and banners affixed to their bodies. The Municipal Corporation and the state government appear oblivious to the plight of these living entities that play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
It is a lamentable situation, akin to inflicting wounds on someone’s heart or hacking at someone’s body. These trees, which contribute significantly to the aesthetics of Panaji, are suffering in silence. Despite the crucial role trees play in oxygen production and the overall well-being of the environment, their value seems overlooked.
A mature tree has the capacity to produce enough oxygen for ten people to breathe for an entire year. Essentially, two substantial trees can fulfill the oxygen needs of a family of four. The wanton damage to these trees not only jeopardizes their survival but also diminishes the city’s green cover.
The lack of understanding or awareness regarding the significance of trees in urban spaces is evident as cities expand, and trees face an increasing threat. The silent suffering of these trees raises questions about environmental consciousness and the need for responsible civic behavior.
The language of trees may not be audible, but the damage inflicted upon them is a clear expression of distress. The call for responsible environmental stewardship echoes louder than ever, urging citizens to recognize the vital role trees play in sustaining life and preserving the ecological balance. The urgent need for awareness and action to protect and nurture Panjim’s trees is evident, lest the city loses more than just its greenery.
