Trees on Patiala–Sanour Road Fall Victim to Negligence, Green Claims Exposed

Patiala , January 6 - The trees planted on both sides of the Patiala–Sanour Road have lately become a glaring example of administrative apathy. As clearly visible in the pictures, the bark of several trees has been badly damaged, while heaps of garbage, plastic bags, and empty bottles lie scattered around their bases. This condition is not only dangerous for the trees themselves but is also causing serious harm to the environment.

Local residents say that the Patiala–Sanour Road is an important route, used daily by hundreds of vehicles. The trees lining this road play a crucial role in reducing pollution and maintaining ecological balance, yet no attention is being paid to their upkeep. According to residents, despite informing the municipal corporation and concerned departments on several occasions, no concrete steps have been taken to ensure cleanliness or proper care of the trees.

Experts warn that prolonged accumulation of waste near trees weakens their roots and increases the risk of diseases. If timely pruning and treatment are not carried out, these trees may eventually dry up and die.

On one hand, the government continues to make tall claims about increasing green cover and protecting the environment; on the other, the present condition of the trees on Patiala–Sanour Road raises serious questions about those claims. Residents have demanded immediate cleanliness drives, inspection and treatment of the trees, and strict action against negligent officials, so that the remaining greenery can be saved and preserved.

Regarding this issue, environmental activist

Hardeep Singh Sanour, while speaking to reporters, said that the biggest negligence lies with the Forest Department. He questioned why dumping of garbage is being allowed in a green belt area.

HARDEEP SINGH SANAUR

He further stated that both the Sanour Municipal Council and the Patiala Municipal Corporation are also not taking this matter seriously. He appealed to the concerned authorities to

pay immediate attention to the issue and take prompt action at the earliest.