Guwahati's Bhootnath-Kalipur area remains a dangerous thoroughfare for commuters, with numerous structurally compromised trees still posing a grave threat, just days after a tragic tree collapse claimed a young life. The recent fatality on June 12, where a large tree toppled onto a scooter near the railway tracks, has brought the long-standing issue of hazardous roadside trees into sharp focus.
The victim, Parishmita Hazarika, was a pillion rider on a scooter heading to Pandu College for an examination. The rider, Jyotirmoy Mohan, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment. The incident has cast a pall over the city, especially among the student community, as they mourn the loss and reflect on the persistent dangers.
Despite the recent tragedy, a survey of the Bhootnath-Kalipur stretch reveals a disturbing number of other trees that appear old, decayed, and dangerously inclined, prompting widespread concern among residents and daily commuters who rely on this route.
Local residents, speaking to reporters, expressed frustration over the perceived inaction, stating that many of these trees have been visibly dry, damaged, and precariously leaning for years without any assessment or removal. A local shop owner, Tilak Sarma, highlighted that the recent incident was not isolated. “About four months ago, a tree fell on a man in a nearby lane, and he died on the spot,” Sarma recounted, underscoring a pattern of neglect and a critical need for preventative measures.
The recurring incidents underscore an urgent need for authorities to conduct a comprehensive survey and undertake immediate measures to identify and remove hazardous trees, ensuring the safety of those who traverse this vital route in Guwahati.
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