Human rights panel seeks report on dried-up trees on PU campus

The Punjab State and Chandigarh (UT) Human Rights Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of an article, ‘Dried-up trees pose threat to students on Panjab University campus’, published in the same columns on April 16. The commission, headed by Chairperson Justice Sant Parkash, has called for a report from the authorities concerned by the next date of hearing, i.e. June 18.

“The commission has taken cognisance in the matter. Accordingly, let the complaint be put up before the Chief Engineer, UT, Chandigarh, and Vice-Chancellor, Panjab University, Chandigarh, to submit the report a week before the next date of hearing,” read the order.

On Wednesday, the Tribune had reported that dried-up trees were tilting dangerously over benches at the Student Centre on Panjab University campus and were posing threat to students and staff. Not only the students, but the shopkeepers nearby also fear that these trees may fall anytime in heavy rain and can be life threatening.

In 2022, a 250-year-old tree fell on students, leaving one dead and many injured at a Sector 9 school. On a regular basis, the area attracts students who sit here for hours. Not only the students, but the campus staff also sometimes organise their unofficial meetings here.