486 trees identified for pruning as monsoon nears

May 25, 2015 12:00 am | Updated 05:51 am IST - MYSURU:

Workers cutting branches of a tree on JLB Road in Mysuru.— Photo: M.A. Sriram

Workers cutting branches of a tree on JLB Road in Mysuru.— Photo: M.A. Sriram

Even as the recent pre-monsoon showers exposed chinks in the preparedness of the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) to tackle rain-related emergencies, the horticulture wing of the corporation is facing the challenge of pruning or chopping tree branches hanging precariously, endangering public safety and properties.

The MCC has received as many as 200 requests so far from residents for pruning/chopping tree branches or clearing ‘dead’ trees ahead of the monsoon. The details of the applications, including location and complainants’ name, were submitted to the Forest Department seeking its consent.

Now, the corporation has reportedly received a list of 486 trees, including 200 trees suggested by the residents, which have been identified for pruning.

The onus is now on the MCC to complete the job before the arrival of the monsoon. The Forest Department facilitates the process and lends its advice.

Though MCC sources claim that the work on pruning tree branches had taken off, there are only two multi-utility vehicles equipped with hydraulic ladders for reaching heights (up to 20 to 25 feet) for pruning/chopping tree branches. For tree cutting, the MCC has to outsource the work and inform the traffic police as traffic has to be diverted when work is taken up.

Rajshekar Murthy, in-charge engineer of the horticulture wing, MCC, told The Hindu that “Most cases are related to pruning or chopping tree branches. We have to remit the cost of the wood pruned/chopped to the Forest Department. The rates have been fixed based on the type of wood.” Some private parties buy the tree branches, which is subsequently paid to the department following an inspection by the authorities concerned. In reply to a question, Mr. Murthy said there is no provision to outsource tree pruning work and the staff has to complete the job.

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