Where will the birds go? How two Bengaluru kids saved an old tree from felling
Brothers Parth (9) and Arjun (7) saved an old fig from being felled in their society, which was damaging the sewage line, by roping an urban conservationist.
Bengaluru got schooled on environment conservation and saving trees when two children saved a tree from being felled in their society by roping in a 'tree doctor'.
Brothers Parth (9) and Arjun (7) Choudhary bogged their parents with questions when the residents of their apartment decided to chop a tree whose roots were damaging the sewage line.
They asked where will the birds, squirrels and insects go if their home is hacked. Moved by their incessant questions and mounting concern for the tree, Prashant and Dr Harshita Choudhary called urban conservationist Vijay Nishanth to help.
Nishanth was surprised to find the kids overwhelming with concern for the old tree and enthusiastic to help. He apprised them of the method that could help save both the tree and sewage line.
The total cost to save the wild fig tree was estimated at Rs 25,000, so the brothers swung into action and collected money from their neighbours and submitted Rs 7000.
Nishanth along with few people dug a 6-feet deep pit around the tree and cut the roots that were causing hindrance to sewage system.
The roots were then treated with a liquid bandage using beeswax and orange oil. While beeswax provides a layer to heal, orange oil keeps the roots away from infection.
They then covered it with a cloth bag filled with manure that will give it nutrition for the next few months till the roots completely heal.
Parth and Arjun, victorious in their endeavor gave a message, 'Save trees, do not cut them and plant more trees.'