Volunteers check rare trees in Museum compound

T'puram: Volunteers from Tree Walk checked 10 rare trees in the Museum compound on Sunday to identify and document rare trees in public spaces so that they can be preserved.Anitha Sharma of Tree Walk said, "We attempted to understand what it is to be a rare tree in a rapidly urbanising milieu like Thiruvananthapuram city." Starting with Spinous keno tree, which is rare because the conditions for its growth are restricted, people who took part in the walk saw the rare endemic Malabar iron wood, Asoka tree and the magnificent Indian jamun, she added. A highlight was the riparian Humboldt tree, which was destroyed during the 2018 flood but rejuvenated scientifically. Fairy petticoat tree, fig tree from West Africa, Flame of the forest, Krishna Ficus and Tabebuia tree (Lilac trumpet flower) in full bloom attracted the attention of the walkers. "The team discussed the need for an urban screening policy for Kerala with a focus on indigenous and rare species. The participation of a committed group of 22 people revealed the need for more tree walks," Sharma said. S Ramachandran, a participant, said, "Tree Walk gave me the opportunity to learn about various trees, including some rare trees in our city. One such tree is Abraham Jamun tree in Ayurveda College Jn, which is the only one available in the region. The exercise also inspires people to realise the importance of trees and speak up against reckless cutting of trees." He said, "Of late, a lot of trees in our city are cut down on account of so-called safety, but this is done without a proper process or guideline. There is no accountability or responsibility. No scientific study is done. A more prudent approach is required while pruning them in the name of safety."