Legal Thunder: FIR Filed Against Contractor as Nails Threaten Shimla’s Heritage Trees
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Shimla, Dec 23 Ritanjali Hastir :
In a stark display of indifference, the concerns raised by Himachal Tonite and echoed by several other media outlets about the nails hammered into the green trees along the Ridge and Mall area seem to have fallen on deaf ears. Despite being in the public domain for two days, the authorities have maintained a casual attitude towards the mounting public opinion.
In a surprising turn of events, Mayor Surinder Chauhan seems to downplay the environmental concerns raised by the public regarding the installation of lights on trees. Despite widespread objections, Chauhan suggests that the issue might have been blown out of proportion and insists that the nails used haven’t harmed the trees significantly. Though he does say that he will get the light removed, his seemingly indifferent stance, despite claiming to be an environmental enthusiast, raises questions about the priorities of the city’s leadership.
On the other side, DFO Pawan Chauhan’s response adds to the air of nonchalance. While acknowledging the concerns, he mentions that he has submitted a report to his seniors, and actions will be decided after an inspection. The lack of immediate and decisive action from the authorities responsible for protecting the city’s environmental integrity highlights a concerning level of negligence. As the city’s heritage faces potential harm, the authorities’ seemingly indifferent approach raises eyebrows and concerns among the city’s residents.
In a proactive move to address the escalating concerns surrounding the hammering of nails into trees, former Deputy Mayor Tikender Pawar and Congress leader Mala Singh filed a First Information Report (FIR) against the contractor this morning. The legal action comes as a response to the mounting public outcry and the apparent disregard for environmental norms in the installation of lights on trees in Shimla.
Nailing Nature’s Coffin: Historic Ridge’s Green Sentinels Under Hammer
Pawar expressed deep concern over the situation, stating, “The blatant disregard for our city’s natural heritage is disheartening. These trees are an integral part of Shimla’s identity, and we cannot stand by while they are being subjected to such harm. Filing an FIR is a necessary step to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.”
“In my perspective, this stands out as an egregiously insensitive act towards nature, particularly as it jeopardizes the life of trees. Furthermore, urban trees inherently endure various stressors. Trees have a natural rhythm, syncing with the regular transitions from day to night guided by the sun and the moon. They are undeniably living entities. The introduction of artificial lights disrupts this natural rhythm, extending the perceived day length. This disruption can alter their flowering patterns, impede growth, and ultimately jeopardize their overall health.” – Former Head, WWF-India, Himachal State Office – Aarti Gupta
The contractor’s blatant disregard for the law, despite being fully aware of the legalities surrounding tree protection, serves as a stark reminder of the lax enforcement and the lack of fear instilled in those who should be guardians of environmental norms. The act of hammering hundreds of nails into the trunks and branches of heritage trees, violating court directives and causing irreversible damage, underscores a disturbing trend where the very custodians of our city’s well-being choose to act with impunity.
