Tree Transplantation: A Necessity for Environmental Balance

ALOK K. SHRIVASTAVA

Sufficient tree cover is essential for the survival of humankind. In a vast country like India, only 25.71% of the total geographical area is covered by forests. However, seventeen states have a forest cover exceeding 33%, with Madhya Pradesh having the highest, followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Maharashtra.

Sapling plantations are carried out annually to maintain environmental balance. Nonetheless, large numbers of trees are felled for infrastructure projects such as roads, power plants, and dams. To compensate for this loss, replantation is undertaken in new areas. However, many saplings do not survive due to negligence by the responsible authorities.

Tree transplantation presents a viable alternative. This process involves uprooting mature trees and replanting them in a new location. However, it requires time, patience, and expertise.

Suitability of Trees for Transplantation

Not all trees can be successfully transplanted. Species such as Peepul, Ficus, Semul, and Sheesham are resilient to transplantation, whereas trees like Dak, Palash, Arjun, Shahtoot, and Jhilmil are not.

While organ transplantation in humans is well known, the transplantation of mature trees remains relatively unheard of. This practice began in the U.S. in the early 1970s.

Method of Transplantation

Unlike the fully mechanized uprooting process used in the U.S., tree transplantation in India is mostly carried out manually. The procedure involves carefully digging around the tree to form a root ball, isolating the roots. Large branches are pruned, leaving small shoots for regeneration. The process takes several days, ensuring that the roots are protected from shock and retain sufficient moisture.

As the roots are severed, a fungicide is applied to prevent infections, followed by a rooting hormone in paste form to promote healthy regrowth. The tree is then left undisturbed for a few days before relocation.

Secure Tying and Transportation

Once the root ball is prepared, it is wrapped in wet gunny bags to maintain hydration. The tree is then carefully tied with chains, either from the base or by its branches, depending on the root system and soil type. Using hydraulic cranes, the uprooted tree is slowly lifted and transported to the designated location, often at night to avoid traffic congestion.

Chemical Treatment of the New Site

Before transplantation, the new site is chemically treated. Initially, 400 liters of water is applied, with the quantity gradually reduced as the tree adapts to the new soil and environment. Due to the relocation stress, the tree sheds its leaves initially. Sprouting occurs once the roots fully adjust, signaling a successful transplantation.

Cost of Transplantation

The cost of transplanting a tree varies with distance. Previously, the average cost per tree was around ?4,000. Though this may seem high, the long-term environmental benefits far outweigh the monetary expenditure.

Survival Rate and Precautions

The survival rate of transplanted trees is estimated at 80-90%, depending on adequate water availability, which ensures soil moisture. Some critical precautions include:

• Using jute bags instead of tarpaulin to cover the root ball, as jute retains moisture and facilitates proper fungicide and insecticide treatment.
• Transporting soil from the original site to maintain beneficial mycorrhiza and bacteria, which assist in mineral and water absorption.
• Ensuring the new site is in close proximity to minimize root damage and moisture loss.
• Providing sufficient water, nutrients, and manure post-transplantation.
• Raising awareness through print and electronic media to encourage individuals and institutions to adopt tree transplantation. Obtaining mandatory permissions before relocating trees is also essential.

Tree Transplantation in Delhi

The first tree transplantation in Delhi was conducted by the Forest Department in December 1998 when several Sheesham trees were moved from Yamuna Vihar to Loni Road. The Public Works Department (PWD) followed suit, aiming to mitigate pollution. When 516 trees obstructed flyover construction and road widening projects, 331 were transplanted while 185 were cut after obtaining forest clearance. Species such as Peepul, Neem, Sheesham, Kaner, Ashok, Kikar, Jamun, and Tamarind were among those successfully transplanted.

Delhi Metro Rail Corporation’s Initiative

Similarly, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) undertook transplantation when trees were found along the 8.3 km-long Shahdara-Tis Hazari metro corridor. Of 1,300 eco-friendly trees spanning 28 species, 385 were relocated to Shastri Park and the Yamuna River banks. The DMRC also committed to planting 20 trees for every tree cut and proactively planted 26,000 saplings in Najafgarh.

Conclusion

Throughout my service career, I have always emphasized the importance of not only planting trees but also nurturing them. Unfortunately, in reality, post-plantation care is often neglected.

In ecologically fragile, hilly regions such as Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, North Bengal, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, preserving well-rooted tree cover is crucial.

Both fresh plantation and transplantation require diligent care and attention. However, transplanted trees demand even greater efforts to ensure survival and growth.