Destruction of Trees Sparks Outrage in Rawalpindi

In recent years, a troubling incident has unfolded on the old airport Shah Khalid Colony Service Road, where numerous large and healthy trees have been cut down. This act has sparked a heated debate among local residents and city management, raising questions about environmental responsibility and accountability.

Residents living along the Service Road are expressing their outrage through a series of emails directed at the city’s management. They firmly believe that the management played a role in the destruction of these trees. In response, a city management official has categorically denied these allegations, stating, “We have absolutely nothing to do with this act of felling; in fact, it had caught us by surprise.” This statement has done little to quell the anger of the community, who feel that the management should have taken steps to protect the trees.

One resident, Shabbir, voiced his concerns, saying, “It cannot be that healthy trees were felled without intending to benefit someone.” He insists that an inquiry should be launched to uncover the truth behind this incident. Another resident, Zia Hussain, questioned the city management’s commitment to preserving greenery, asking, “If someone cuts the trees in front of their office, will they still take it lying down?”

On the other hand, some residents, like Mishaal Hussain, pointed out that criticism of the city management may not be entirely fair, as many in the community have also contributed to tree loss in the past. This highlights a complex issue where blame may not rest solely on the shoulders of the management.

In a more positive light, Azmat Ali proposed a community initiative called “Make Rawalpindi Green,” suggesting that residents come together to plant saplings across the city. “Just imagine 2000 people across the city planting 20000 saplings in one day!” he exclaimed, emphasizing the importance of environmental awareness and community involvement.

Rukhsana Zaidi raised a critical point regarding the role of the Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC), suggesting that their involvement is crucial in understanding how such an incident could occur. She argued that without accountability for those who permitted the tree felling, the situation is unlikely to improve. “By some calculations, a tree contributes a great deal of value to the environment during its lifetime,” she noted, underscoring the long-term impact of losing these trees.

As the debate continues, remnants of the hacked trees serve as a stark reminder of the loss. Residents are now calling for an internal inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. The community’s passion for preserving their environment is evident, and it raises an important question: How can we ensure that our green spaces are protected for future generations? The answer lies in accountability, community action, and a shared commitment to safeguarding our natural resources.