Four nature lovers from Hyderabad started a project to document banyan trees on Chevella road one year ago. They were joined by 20 volunteers and together they geotagged 914 trees. Unfortunately, they found that three of the trees had been partially burned and another tree was on the verge of destruction. This discovery highlights the danger facing these natural wonders.
Around 200 volunteers helped with the geotagging project in June 2022 to map out the exact locations of the trees for monitoring and conservation purposes. The volunteers’ dedication has provided valuable information about the state of the region’s flora.
In May 2023, volunteers used the map to recount the banyan trees and discovered that several trunks showed burn marks. Banyan trees 258, 459, and 894 were destroyed, with 258’s canopy completely gone and its stump burnt beyond recovery. Banyan 459 was cut down in February 2023, leaving only scattered branches behind. Banyan 894 suffered significant damage at its base, causing it to topple over. Banyan 259 faces a critical threat, with stunted growth, a lopped canopy, severe damage, and brown leaves.
Natasha Ramarathnam spoke to The Hans India and said that better patrolling is needed to protect these trees.
