The tree, which has stood for over 35 years at the edge of the Petrol Park near Machangolhi Cemetery, was reportedly causing difficulties for those living in the area.
A large banyan tree near the former Petrol Hotel site in Machangolhi, Male', is being cut down due to concerns raised by residents living the area.
The tree, which has stood for over 35 years at the edge of the Petrol Park near Machangolhi Cemetery, was reportedly causing difficulties for those living in the area.
In response to a request submitted last November, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted permission for its removal. A letter signed by the agency's Director General, Ibrahim Naeem, stated that "EPA had no objections to the felling of the tree at the intersection of Iskandhar Magu and Dhevina Magu."
Therefore, Male' City Council began cutting down the tree yesterday.
EPA has instructed the council to replant parts of the tree elsewhere in Male' City. If replanting is not feasible, two new trees must be planted as replacements, with photos and videos of the process shared with EPA.
While some residents have welcomed the removal, citing issues caused by the tree’s roots spreading throughout the area, others have voiced their opposition on social media.
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