Himachal: Ancient trees were saved, administrator changed the design of the project

Himachal Pradesh: Under the coordination of development and heritage conservation, the Bilaspur district administration has resolved to protect centuries-old peepal and banyan trees threatened by the construction work of Shimla-Matour four-lane highway near Brahmapukhar. Acting on the concern of the area residents, Bilaspur Sadar SDM Dr Rajdeep Singh conducted a field inspection of Vinayak Ghat and Brahmapukhar. He was accompanied by representatives of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), forest department and construction company, Gawar. Dr Singh said the administration has decided to make changes in the design of the project to ensure the survival of the ancient trees. “Keeping in mind the sentiments of the people, it has been decided to ensure the safety of these trees,” he said. “We are committed to development that respects both the environment and the cultural heritage of the region.” He said the most important changes in the project would include changing the design of the flyover so that it passes over the largest peepal. He said the tree will be carefully pruned to ensure no hindrance to the construction work and further steps will be taken to maintain its health. He said other small trees in the vicinity will also be uprooted and transplanted to a safer place under the supervision of the forest department. Congress leader and environmentalist Sandeep Sankhyan said the move was highly commendable and would not only preserve nature but also enhance the beauty of the highway. Local residents and environmental groups, who had raised concerns about the impact of the project on the natural and cultural sites of the region, have also welcomed the change in plan.