A heritage Banyan tree in Track Machine Premises of South East Central Railway (SECR) in Motibag near Kadbi Square has been declared to be one of the oldest living trees in the city. The Forest Department has estimated age of the tree to be around 233 years. In a striking testament to the possibility of co-existence between industrial progress and nature, this venerable Banyan tree, estimated to be 233 years old, stands tall even today.

 

The tree seems to defy the modern-day narrative of machines and trees as adversaries, offering a powerful message of peaceful cohabitation. The tree’s remarkable age was determined by the Forest Department at the request of Manish Pashine, Senior Section Engineer at Motibagh. The Department’s meticulous analysis culminated in the issuance of an official certificate recognising its estimated age, giving new significance to its presence on the bustling railway site. The discovery has brought a renewed sense of purpose to the premises, highlighting the historical and ecological value of the living relic. Amol Chaurpagar, Garden Superintendent, Nagpur Municipal Corporation, while speaking to The Hitavada, confirmed the tree to be one of the oldest trees.

 

He said, “Even if not the oldest, this tree is one of the oldest trees in the city. A Peepal tree near Raja Rani Square is aged above 250 years.” To honour unique position of the tree and its significance, it been affectionately renamed ‘Amazing Banyan,’ a title now proudly displayed on a board installed in front of it. The board also gives the message ‘Progress with Machines, Peace with Trees.’ This move celebrates the Banyan’s incredible longevity and its role as a silent, steadfast observer to the industrial development that has unfolded around it over two centuries.

 

The presence of this heritage tree amidst a landscape dominated by heavy machinery and railway infrastructure sends a profound message. It serves as a living symbol of harmonious co-existence, demonstrating that scientific advancement and the preservation of nature need not be mutually exclusive. The ‘Amazing Banyan’ stands as a beacon of hope, inspiring a future where humanity can build and innovate while respecting and protecting the natural world.