Monday, April 30, 2012

An Unnatural Death


Ever since I could remember he was there - strong, well built, arms open in welcome - and now, he is no more there... it pained me to no extend that the huge tree that provided shelter from rain and shine, which stood majestically along the roadside, with its branches stretched over to the other side of the road has now been cut and removed... The spot which was full of life suddenly has turned into a barren land!!!

Thanneer Panthal - meaning refreshment booth (or shade of tree in this case) - was a bus stop (named after the huge tree providing shade) en-route to my home from the humble town of Perinthalmanna. Placed somewhat in the middle of the distance from Perinthalmanna town and my own bus stop, the characteristic mark of Thanneer Panthal was the grandfather tree which formed a canopy on the road. It was a pleasing sight to behold the majestic splendour with which the tree stood, holding its head high. 

I must have passed by the tree at least a thousand times, if not more… I’ve always felt the cool shades of him on me, even if I was in the bus on my way to and from home. Many a times, I’ve paused under the massive branches of the tree to enjoy the cool shade and enjoyed waiting under its protective shades. Moreover, the pupils from the nearby college and school also used to find comfort and comradeship under its cover. 

It was as if the tree was there forever! I could never imagine the place without the tree. And now as the land lie naked and scarred with the stump of tree bleeding out its life, I feel as if a part of me has also dead… What used to be a lively spot is now bleak and dead – forever!

I know now that the tree was cut to accommodate the widening of the road and that it is only one among the hundreds that are mercilessly cut each day so as to felicitate development. Sadly, to a certain extent, it cannot be avoided as well. It is often told that if we cut one tree we should plant ten instead. But, it is alarming to note that there is hardly any land left to plant more trees. Presently, even if one wants to plant a tree for the one that was cut, there is no land available to do so. And soon a time will come when the barren land and arid days will force us to regret our thoughtless deeds; but by then, it would be too late!!!

8 comments:

Rajesh said...

Touching tribute. Not many are given, these days, to non-humans who die an unnatural death. (Or is it plain blue murder...green murder, actually). And it's such rampant 'inhuman' behaviour that ails Mother Earth today.

Good to hear a sane, concerned voice in this abject silence. Good also to have eco soldiers like you...keep fighting...it's a great cause!!!

Nisha said...

Thanks Jaji! I agree with you that it is a (cold blooded) murder!

I don't know if anyone protested against it! And honestly, even if someone had, I don't think that voice would have heard above the killing blows of the axe!!!

I hope more and more people will come together and speak against these killings!

ajith said...

Development comes.....do not oppose
Or you will be labelled as Naxalite or Environmental terrorist

Nisha said...

Thank you Ajith for your words! Well, I know that my lone voice would not be heard amidst the roar of machines...

I am not opposed to development per se. I am only voicing my concerns against the unabashed exploitation of nature. And if we all turn a blind eye towards the evils happening in our society, then we are no better than the people who are destroying it!

roopz said...

People kill trees in the name of development. But how many of them can really grow a tree? That is the same reason that make my family to oppose cutting of trees inside our compound.

Regards
village girl

LEKHA NAMBOODIRI said...

Nisha,

Let us not forget that many people like our dad continue to plant a number of trees in their compounds. It may not replenish the loss altogether, but there are many people who are really great with their "little" deeds... Let us also view the social re-forestration efforts taken by kerala govt(for eg) by suppling plants n trees through schools. Media ads also hv touched the minds of even junior school children, & may be thats why last week a 5th std boy (perhaps, kannan!) wondered if it was right to destroy trees!!! Though in a slow pace, we too have begun to be aware of the need for protecting our environment. The L&T words - "The Nature of our Future depends on the Future of our Nature" are, as always apt to be remembered in this context.
Sure it's sad to see a tree being cut, but let us ourselves start a new beginning by planting a tree, instead. The world, or say ... modern world is sure to take this change positively....
But yes, along with the huge trees, even "thanneer pandals" hv given way to cool bars, sophosticately decorated with artificial bamboo leaves....

I think the acts of opinion leaders like Kochouseph Chittilapally, who has only 3% of his office, artificially air conditioned, would be an inspiration for the new generation...


Regards

Lekha

Nisha said...

It is due to the concern of few people like your family that a few green areas are still found in our surroundings... Sometimes, it might be necessary to cut a tree or two, but if take care to plant and grow a few in their place, then it would be great!

Thanks for sharing the noble thought of your family!

Regards,
Nisha

Nisha said...

Edathi,
First of all, let me tell you how happy I am to see your comment. (I never knew you read my Blog) Thanks for taking some time from your busy schedule to write your thoughts. I appreciate it greatly.

Yes, I know there are a few people like our father who continue to plant trees and take similar steps to protect the environment.

"The Nature of our Future depends on the Future of our Nature" That is a wise thought! And yes, we should take inspiration from exemplary behaviours of others - be it opinion leaders or even a student of 5th std.

Looking forward to hear from you more often...

Regds,
Nisha

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