Hammering of nails into trees draws flak in Aurangabad

26 April 2022

Aurangabad: Majority of old trees at Himayat bagh have been nailed, drawing sharp reactions from experts and nature-lovers who seek stern action against the elements involved.

The contractor, who has received the auction bid of mango trees at Himayat bagh, has allegedly nailed the trees to display notices warning visitors against plucking of fruits.

Notices warning visitors not to pluck fruits at the garden have been displayed at various spots. The notices state that fine of Rs 500 and Rs 100 for plucking of mangoes and picking up fallen mango on ground will be levied.

Botanist Milind Girdhari said nailing weakens the trunk of trees. “Nailing has gradual adverse impact on the growth and life of trees. Many trees at Himayat Bagh are very old and are bound to suffer damage due to insertion of nails,” he said.

Nature lover Sanjay Gaikwad said it is ironical that tree-cover at Himayat bagh was being damaged despite Aurangabad bench of Bombay High Court asking the authorities to give heritage tag to trees at the Mughal-era garden.

“Both Himayat bagh authorities as well as contractor concerned must face action, failing which we will launch a sit-in protest at Himayat bagh,” he said.

As per the amended Maharashtra (Urban Areas) Preservation and Protection of Trees Act 1975, many trees at Himayat Bagh that are over 50-years old are entitled for the heritage tag.