Majority of century-old banyan tree in Vilimale’ cut down despite pleas

A major part of a century-old banyan tree located in the water sports area of Villimalé has been cut down.

The Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) began dismantling the tree last Wednesday. On the same day, an environmental activist attempted to stop the operation by climbing the tree in protest.

Residents of Villimalé told Sun on Friday that a major part of the tree has now been cut down, with its branches cleared and only the stump remaining.

Villimalé is home to two prominent banyan trees, one located near the police station and the other in the ‘Water Sports Beach’ area. Residents had previously raised concerns about the tree at the water sports beach, citing damage and inconvenience caused to nearby households by its roots and branches.

In response to these concerns, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced in October last year that the two banyan trees in Villimalé would be cut down.

At the time, former President Mohamed Nasheed appealed for the tree to be preserved, highlighting its 100-year history. Environmental advocates also expressed significant concern over the decision.

In response, the President clarified that while cutting down trees is not a general government policy, removing them when they pose an obstacle to human habitation does not contradict the government's commitment to reforestation.

The President further stated that he had instructed the Environment Ministry to plant at least 300 trees in the ward to compensate for the removal of the two banyan trees in Villimalé.