After a century on Sarat Bose Road, banyan tree now plays a 2nd innings
Times of India | 8 July 2024
Kolkata: The century-old Banyan tree that was transplanted at Park Circus Maidan after it had toppled on Sarat Bose Road more than a fortnight ago has sprouted fresh leaves. Botanists said the development was extremely encouraging as it increases the chance of the tree’s survival and regeneration. Usually, less than one in three transplanted trees survive the trauma.
According to horticulturist Sushanta Ganguly who accompanied TOI on a spot visit to review the condition of the transplanted tree, there is every indication that the transplant has been successful and the tree has gained a fresh lease of life.
“Sprouting of leaves from the transplanted tree within a fortnight indicates that the tree has not only survived but is poised for growth,” said Ganguly. He, however, sounded a note of caution and said the tree would have to be regularly monitored and cared for at least three-four months before nature can take over.
“Due to the monsoon, water intake for the transplanted tree was sufficient for its survival. Besides, a group of individuals and the KMC parks department took good care of the tree and ensured that it survived,” said Ganguly.
The team that carried out the transplant is determined to care and ensure the tree’s survival. “We have to save the new leaves from insects. Also, we should not allow stagnation of excess water near the trunk after a downpour that might harm the health of the tree. Spraying of anti-fungal medicines will protect the infected branches of the tree that needed to be cut to bring the tree to the park,” said a horticulturist associated with the transplant team.
Sanjay Jaisingh who spearheaded the transplant initiative said he had never expected leaves to regenerate this fast. During the period, he sprayed 20 litres of a water-based mixture of bio-stimulant and fungicide every time. “I did it thrice in the past fortnight time and the result is so positive,” he added, who also believes that rainwater is the best fertilizer.
Bijlee Rahman (68) who was actively assisted during the re-plantation process said “It is great to hear that the tree has started to show the first sign of survival symptoms. Coming week, I will try to remove all the cables and wires that are still entangled with it,” said Rahman, who is a resident of Darga Road. For the initial five days during sultry summer time, Rahman arranged KMC water tankers to hydrate the trunk .
The century-old giant banyan tree on Sarat Bose Road near Chakraberia Road (North) was lifted by three big cranes and replanted at Park Circus Maidan on June 19, late in the night. The trunk weighed around 40,000 kg. A hole, about 2.5m deep, was excavated with the help of a payloader before the tree was planted there.