The Synjuk ki Seng Samla Shnong (SSSS) of East Khasi Hills has expressed concern on the loss of the 100-year-old pine trees in Upper Shillong as part of a road widening project.
The felling of the trees along the scenic route was put on hold following mass public anger. In a statement today, the SSSS said that the trees not only add to the scenic beauty but also purify the air and attract tourists.
SSSS environmental secretary, Faming Kharnaior, said that the body welcomes widening of the road into a four-lane that will reduce traffic congestion but also does not want to see all the pine trees along the existing road lost in the process.
“We urge the concerned authority to look into the matter and see that the pine trees felled at Upper Shillong are replaced with new pine trees in the Upper Shillong area,” he said.
There were reports that the government was planning to reforest an area of South West Khasi Hills in compensation for the felling of the Upper Shillong trees.
