Rare tree honoured with heritage status in Mumbai

Mumbai, June 4 (UNI) A 45-year-old, rare 'Ajan' tree, situated in Dnyaneshwar Mandir in the metropolis, was honoured with heritage status on the eve of World Environment Day today.

A plaque informing the age of the tree, its legend and other related botanical information was unveiled on the occasion.

The 'Ajan' tree is one of the two trees found in the city.

Mumbai Mayor Dr Shubha Raul was the Chief Guest and classical singer Ms Kishori Amonkar was a Special Guest at this unique ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shubha Raul said, ''Only if every resident of Mumbai celebrates his or her birthday by planting a tree, one can imagine the sheer size and greenery, the city would present.

I am very happy that 'Sons of Soil', a nursery and landscape solution provider, has taken a lead in giving recognition to rare trees, which will go a long way in educating people on the importance of trees. I sincerely hope that other organisations take similar interest in such an important issue.'' Ms Kishori Amonkar said, ''It is strange that while people mourn the death of a human being, no tears are shed when a tree is chopped off. We should protect trees with the same efforts that go into saving human life. One should not forget that a tree offers much more than mere wood.'' Promoted by passionate nature lovers and experts with proven track record in the fields of taxonomy, nursery, horticulture and landscape development, 'Sons of Soil' has a far greater mission - to spread much-needed awareness about the importance of nature in a man's life and undertaking activities to conserve the trees while planting new ones.

'Sons of Soil' Chairman Dr Marselin Almeida said, ''The logic behind honouring trees is as simple as it is endearing. If man-made ancient architecture and monuments are honoured with heritage status, why not nature's offering - the tree - given the same honour. And to think of what a tree does and can do in light of the multiple dangers, the environment faces today, it is only natural that conservation of trees becomes one of the top most priorities.'' UNI LS KU BDP RS2146