The Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh has orderedfelling of close to 200 trees, some of which are more than 150 years old, tomake way for building a colony.
A note circulated by the teaching and non-teaching staff, who are againstthe move, states that some of trees have already been cut. They assert thatthere is enough vacant space for the development project and trees need not becut.
¡°Banaras Hindu University is known for its greenery and preservation oftrees that are over a decade old. The redevelopment project is in full swing andis bound to threaten the trees which provide fruits and shelter, apart from havingvast medicinal properties. Razing these trees is a threat to the legacy of BHU.¡±
¡°So far, numerous trees have been cut, some of which are more than 150years old. The construction of news multi-storeyed building will furtherrequire cutting down of close to 200 trees, the orders for which have alreadybeen given,¡± read the circular.
It further says that there is enough vacant space in the university and cuttingof trees is not required. ¡°Despite, the trustee has chosen to cut down treesand not make use of the vacant land,¡± reads the circular.
The note reads there are many hostels which are not inhabited and yetthey are not allotted.
The staff wants the trees to be declared a heritage property and must betaken care of. ?
The BHUcampus is famous for its lush green campus in a city that has lost its green coverto urbanisation.
Plantationdrives are carried out in BHU from time to time to maintain the green cover andalso make the environment more environment-friendly.