BENGALURU: Unidentified miscreants have poured acid at the roots of a pongamia (Beech) tree in Jayanagar, suspectedly to get rid of it without chopping it down. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike, the Forest and Police Departments have taken the issue seriously as such activities are increasing lately and are keeping a close watch to nab the accused.
As soon as he received information from local, environmental activist and tree doctor Vijay Nishant visited the spot and took steps to ensure that the tree does not die. It will take at least three months for the tree to heal, he said.
“People should stop such things and they should understand that trees benefit our environment. This has been done by people who don’t know the value of plants and trees”, he said.
“I have seen such incidents recurring. People get rid of trees for the establishment of commercial complex, or because it obstruct visibility of their house or building. I get complaints of killing trees by drilling holes in it or pouring acid at the roots every three-four months and it is shocking. We are trying to save trees by providing necessary fertilisers and the Forest department officials and the BBMP are also supporting us”.
“If people come across trees being destroyed they should inform to the authorities concerned or they can contact me. The police should ensure that those who indulge in such acts are punished”, he added.