Mormugao to prepare list of dangerous, overgrown trees

Vasco:

Trees

that are

overgrown

and pose a danger to people and property will be listed on priority and a report will be prepared in a month’s time. This decision was taken at a meeting chaired by deputy

Mormugao

collector Dattaraj Dessai in a bid to address tree falls in Vasco town and other parts of Mormugao taluka. The meeting was convened after Goacan petitioned the SDM for action after repeated incidents of trees falling that are causing loss to life and property.

While stressing on the need for regular pruning of trees, officials from the various departments and agencies shared their experiences of obtaining clearances for tree cutting, the procedure of issuing showcauses and the challenges faced by them during the recent cyclone Tauktae. The participants also unanimously agreed that the forest department must play a vital role by providing important information on trees such as its history, growth pattern and health.

It was also decided that a follow-up meeting should be held by October-end where all departments and agencies will identify their requirements and make specific recommendations which can be placed before the collector and the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA).

Goacan coordinator Roland Martins highlighted the need for all agencies to take preventive action to avoid loss of life and property. He elaborated on the need for consumer safety in public places and called for effective team work from all departments and agencies so as to avoid litigation and the resultant need for payment of compensation in cases that may arise in Mormugao taluka.