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Unidentified individuals chop trees, activists demand action

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The remaining part of the two chopped trees along Majitha Road in Amritsar on Saturday. Photo: Vishal Kumar
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In stark contrast to the administration’s ambitious green drive, two fully grown trees were illegally chopped on Majitha Road near Guru Nanak Hospital, allegedly by some local individuals. Local activists alleged that most of the times nearby traders do this so that their shops are clearly visible from a distance.

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Environmentalists and local activists have condemned the act, terming it a violation of public and environmental ethics. “There should be a policy and provision to register a case against individuals who damage greenery,” said Pawan Sharma, a city-based activist. “The chopping of trees on Majitha Road should be investigated and strict action must be taken against the culprits.”

The incident highlights a growing trend in the city where individuals, in a bid to increase visibility of stores or signage, remove roadside trees planted on public land. Last year, a similar case was reported at Novelty Chowk, where an advertisement agency cut down trees to make their glow signboard more visible.

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Ironically, this incident comes just weeks after Deputy Commissioner Sakshi Sawhney launched a major plantation drive on July 8, announcing that nearly three lakh saplings would be planted across Amritsar district during the monsoon. She also introduced an incentive programme to honour citizens who not only plant but also nurture saplings, offering them appreciation certificates as a token of recognition.

Despite these well-intentioned initiatives, there appears to be a loophole in enforcement. While there are policies in place to penalise those who harm green spaces, local activists argue that implementation is often lax and cases like these go unchecked.

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As the city grapples with rising pollution and the diminishing green cover, environmentalists stress the need for both strong deterrents and public awareness. “Planting trees is not enough. We must also protect what already exists,” said Sharma.

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