Puttur: Engineer translocates trees instead of chopping them down

Puttur: When trees obstruct construction, the common reaction is to cut them down without a second thought. However, an inspiring exception has come to light in Puttur, where an engineer chose to save coconut trees instead of destroying them for a house construction project.

P.G. Jaganniwas Rao, a vastu engineer and municipal council member in Puttur, demonstrated his commitment to greenery by relocating two towering coconut trees instead of felling them. His act serves as a lesson to those who believe cutting down trees is the only solution, showing that preservation is possible with a little effort and planning.

The Operation in Detail

Jagannivas Rao owns a 40-cent plot in Balnadu, where he planned to build a house. According to the construction layout, two large coconut trees were situated right at the spot earmarked for the building. While most people would have opted to chop them down, Rao decided otherwise. He embarked on a mission to preserve the trees and proceed with his construction without harming them.

Relocation with Roots Intact

The relocation operation was scheduled for November 16 and required the assistance of a JCB excavator and a crane. First, two pits were dug 50 meters away from the original site to replant the trees. Then, the JCB carefully loosened the soil around the roots of the coconut trees. Simultaneously, a crane was used to secure the midsection of the trees with a belt to prevent them from falling during the process.

Once the roots were freed, the crane gently lifted the trees and relocated them to the prepared pits. The trees were planted in their new locations, with the entire operation taking approximately three hours. Each tree took about an hour to relocate.

A Unique Approach

“I wanted to build a house, but relocating the coconut trees became inevitable. Cutting them down didn’t feel right. My mentor, M.S. Prasad Muniyangal, advised me to build without felling trees. That inspired me to preserve these trees,” said Jagannivas Rao.
He also mentioned that studies show a 90% survival rate for transplanted coconut trees.

Tips for Successful Relocation

Rao emphasized the key factors for successful tree transplantation:

1. Depth of the Pits: The pits must be deep enough to accommodate the roots.
2. Proper Ventilation: Pipes should be installed in the pits to allow air and water circulation.
3. Maintaining Orientation: The trees should be replanted facing the same direction they were originally growing.

The expertise of crane operator Tilak and JCB operator Krishnananda played a crucial role in the success of this operation. According to Rao, the cost of relocating a single coconut tree is approximately Rs 5,000, which may vary depending on the site.

This thoughtful initiative not only highlights the feasibility of saving trees but also underscores the importance of balancing development with environmental conservation.