In a grim turn of events, a 33-year-old banyan tree located in front of Akashvani, Jeypore, is slated to be sacrificed in the name of road expansion. This iconic tree, a symbol of life and continuity, is now at risk, with many more precious trees expected to face the same fate.
This particular banyan tree has a heartfelt story behind it. It was planted 33 years ago by Mr. Pitta Mallaya, a dedicated security guard, who brought the sapling and cared for it over the years. Thanks to his vigilance and the nearby water source at Jagannath Sagar, the small sapling blossomed into a massive tree, providing shade and shelter to numerous birds and creatures. While Mr. Mallaya is no more, his legacy has lived on through this tree—until now.
The chainsaw is ready, poised to bring down what nature took decades to nurture. All the staff at Akashvani, along with the people of Jeypore, are rallying to save this tree. They argue that cutting down such a majestic symbol of life, under the guise of progress, is a betrayal to the environment and future generations.
“This is not the only tree that will be cut down. Many more will surely fall victim to the road expansion plans,” says Dr Narendra Pattanaik, the Program Executive of Akashbani. “If we cannot protect this tree, how can we claim to protect our planet?”
“Is this the price of progress—a 33-year-old banyan tree about to be sacrificed in the name of road expansion? We plant with one hand and destroy with the other. If a tree that has stood tall for decades can be felled in minutes, what is the true cost of development? When the government speaks of sustainability, global warming, and tree planting, but chooses to raze precious trees for expansion, what message are we sending? Are we so blind to alternatives, so quick to choose destruction over preservation?
This tree isn’t just wood and leaves—it’s a living monument to resilience, sheltering life beneath its canopy. It has witnessed generations, weathered storms, and now stands defenseless. Who has the right to decide its fate, and why aren’t they choosing life? If we cannot protect a tree this grand, how can we claim to protect our planet?
The tree, a living testament to human care and the earth’s resilience, now faces an uncertain future. The people of Jeypore are calling on authorities to reconsider this decision. Save the tree—not just for today, but for the sake of future generations and the well-being of our planet.
Lets rise and say: “Cutting down trees for road expansion is not progress – it’s destruction disguised as development. Save the Banyan, save our future.”
Reported By:
#TRUST
Nihar Ranjan Acharya
Founder and Director, TRUST – a Science and Environment Lover Organization
“Scientific Officer” Indian Climate Congress
Ph. 8249775817
E-mail : nihar.acharya@rediffmail.com