SNS approaches police for protecting heritage tree at old STNM Hospital

GANGTOK,: The Sikkimey Nagarik Samaj (SNS) has lodged a complaint at Gangtok Sadar police station against the Gangtok Smart City Ltd for allegedly deciding to remove a heritage Banyan tree from old STNM Hospital complex here.
A PPP project is coming up at the lower side of old STNM Hospital complex where the “100-year-old” Banyan tree is located.
In a press statement Sunday, the SNS said the Gangtok Smart City Ltd has decided to remove 100-year-old Banyan tree. “The said tree is considered as Dev tree. It is believed that Lord Brahma, Shrihari and Lord Shiva reside in the Banyan tree. The Banyan tree is worshipped for its longevity, strength and spiritual importance, they are also of paramount importance to the environment,” it said.
The SNS in its complaint has asked for an immediate stop on the removal of the religious and environment significant tree by the project authorities.
“It is unfortunate that Gangtok Smart City Development Limited is working as a puppet of private contractors and private companies ignoring the sentiments of Sikkimese people. It is a well-known fact that the Ministry of Urban & Housing Affairs, Government of India has already taken cognizance of the irregularities on the various ongoing PPP projects and has directed the Urban Development department and Gangtok Smart City Limited to submit its report at earliest.”
“However, ignoring both the directives of Union ministry and the sentiments of Sikkimese people, Gangtok Smart City Development Limited is functioning at the will and fancy of private players whose prime motive is just to make quick money,” said the SNS.
In its complaint, the SNS warned that the Urban Development department and Gangtok Smart City Ltd will be held “fully responsible” if their adamant behaviour leads to any untoward incident in future.
The complaint, it is learnt, has been forwarded to the DFO (T, East) for further necessary action.