100-Old Heritage Tree Near Bishop Cotton School Choked in Alleged Killing Attempt
Nagpur, India: A 100-year-old heritage neem tree near Bishop Cotton School in Sadar has been deliberately choked at its roots, allegedly in an attempt to kill it. The incident has sparked outrage among environmentalists and locals.
Green activist Sachin Khobragade noticed the damage while passing by and immediately reported it to the Garden Department of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) on Thursday. Upon inspection, officials confirmed that the tree had been harmed near its base.
The tree stands near the entrance of the ‘Lotus Court’ residential complex, whose management had earlier applied for permission to cut it down. However, after assessing the tree’s location and heritage status, the NMC rejected their request.
Khobragade has accused the President and Secretary of Lotus Court of intentionally damaging the tree and has called for strict action against those responsible. Experts suggest that the method used, known as "girdling," involves cutting the tree’s cambium layer—the part that transports water and nutrients—leading to its gradual death.
Environmentalists have condemned the act and urged authorities to take immediate steps to save the tree and hold the culprits accountable.
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