Banyan tree in Mahchangolhi Cemetery to be removed

The government has decided to cut down the banyan tree in Mahchangolhi Cemetery as it is causing damage to nearby houses and inconveniencing residents living in the area. 

In last night's meeting between President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and residents of Mahchangolhi district in Male', many residing near the cemetery raised concerns about the damage being caused by the banyan tree. 

One resident said that the bathroom at their residence needs to be repaired every three months due to damage from the tree's roots. Bathroom pipes are also damaged, with it needing complete replacement now, they said, appealing to the President to resolve the issue. 

At the meeting, President Muizzu said that no administration has prioritized environmental protection as highly as his government, citing his 'Five Million Trees' pledge as proof. 

He announced that under this program, 800,000 trees have been planted across the country to date, expressing confidence that the target could be reached within the remaining three years of his term. 

"One of the most important things I believe in is sustainable development, so this country's greenness is key to me. So we are a people that love greenery, that love our plants," the President said. 

"Felling trees and such is not our policy. However, removing one out of necessity, when it causes hardship to people, this should not be seen as opposing tree-planting," the President said. 

The President announced that while two banyan trees in Vilimale' must be cut down because they trouble residents, the Environment Ministry has been instructed to plant 300 new trees across the island instead. 

"They are starting this program now. So two trees are being replaced with 300. We hold a love for fostering greenness," the President said. 

"It is necessary to take appropriate action when people are facing hardship in their daily lives. So, I believe it is justified to do this."