A 150-year-old banyan tree, once a symbol of Lahore’s natural and historical heritage, has been felled in the Cantonment area, sparking outrage among residents and environmentalists. The incident comes as the city faces hazardous smog levels, further intensifying concerns about Lahore’s declining air quality and shrinking green cover.
Heritage Tree Felled During Peak Pollution
The ancient banyan tree, known for its expansive canopy and deep roots, stood as a landmark in the area for generations. Locals recall how the tree provided shade, refuge for birds, and a steady source of fresh oxygen amid the city’s growing concrete sprawl.
“It was a lush, thriving tree that breathed life into the neighborhood,” said one long-time resident, expressing grief over the loss. The tree’s removal has not only stripped the locality of natural shade but also heightened public anxiety about unchecked deforestation across urban Lahore.
Environmentalists Condemn the Act
Environmental experts strongly condemned the felling, calling it a setback for Lahore’s ecological balance. With air pollution already at alarming levels, the destruction of mature trees further limits the city’s natural defense against smog and rising temperatures.
“Every fully grown tree in Lahore is invaluable. Its environmental contribution cannot be replaced by any plantation drive,” an environmental specialist emphasized. Mature trees like the banyan play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, reducing heat, and supporting biodiversity, experts noted.
Ecological and Cultural Loss
The banyan tree was not merely an environmental asset but also a part of Lahore’s cultural memory. Many residents viewed it as a living monument linking the city’s colonial and pre-independence past. Its loss, therefore, represents not just an ecological tragedy but also the erosion of Lahore’s historical character.
Environmental advocates argue that the destruction of such heritage trees reflects weak enforcement of conservation laws and insufficient awareness among city planners. They urged authorities to strengthen policies protecting old trees, especially those classified as natural or cultural landmarks.
Urgent Need for Tree Protection Policies
As Lahore continues to battle worsening smog and urban heat, experts stress that preserving mature trees is essential for sustainable urban planning. Replacing century-old trees with saplings cannot offset the environmental damage, as new trees take decades to provide similar benefits.
The felling of the banyan tree underscores the urgent need for stronger municipal regulations and community engagement to prevent further environmental degradation. Activists have called for a city-wide survey to identify and protect remaining heritage trees before they, too, are lost.
Lahore’s air quality ranks among the poorest in the world, and each tree plays a vital role in mitigating pollution. The removal of a 150-year-old banyan during peak smog season highlights the growing disconnect between urban development and environmental preservation—one the city can no longer afford to ignore.
