Centuries-old trees in Ram Bagh drying up for lack of upkeep, many axed by civic body
A number of centuries-old trees have died due to the negligence of authorities and are now lying inside the historic Ram Bagh. Activists allege that the trees are being deliberately dried out to vacate space for commercial purposes, including clubs, illegal sports wings and also for private use within the garden. Large wooden logs from the centuries-old trees can be seen scattered inside the premises. Additionally, several large trees have dried up over the past year and remain standing in the garden.
Activists claim that drill holes have been found in several old trees, indicating that chemicals may have been used to dry them out before being cut. The sight of dozens of chopped trees lying within the garden raises serious questions about the upkeep of this historic green space. Environmentalists and citizens concerned are now demanding a thorough investigation and strict measures to prevent further damage to one of the city’s most valuable green spaces.
Even though the historic Ram Bagh is a protected site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), no concrete efforts have been made to preserve its heritage trees. A large number of fully grown old trees are also falling prey to termites and rodents, which have dug up burrows under their roots. A visit to the Bagh reveals that rats have dug burrows under nearly every tree. Some of these trees are over 200 years old.
Kuljeet Singh, president of the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Virasat Manch, said, “Rats have dug burrows under nearly every tree. Some superstitious people also put grains into these burrows, attracting more rodents. Apart from the historical buildings in the Bagh, the old trees are also part of our heritage and need to be protected. When Maharaja Ranjit Singh developed the Bagh, he brought in many species from other regions in addition to native trees. A little care for these trees would not cost much.”
Advocate PC Sharma stated, “Since cutting green trees is prohibited, these elements first dry them out and then secretly cut and sell them. The Deputy Commissioner (DC) must take strict action against those responsible. A forensic analysis can be conducted at the GNDU laboratory to determine the cause for the deterioration of trees. The municipal authorities must act immediately to curb this illegal activity and safeguard the park’s ecological heritage.”
