IT seems that in the name of ensuring security Karachi is being mercilessly deprived of what little greenery is left on and along its roads.

Well-grown and lush green trees planted by the city government have been felled at the outer wall of Malir cantonment along the newly-built Jinnah Avenue linking Sharea Faisal and Super Highway. Earlier, this tract presented a green look. But now it is barren.

Also, on Governor House Road old lush green dense trees have been felled or trimmed nearly to death. On Sharea Faisal from Drigh Road to Karsaz and from FTC Bridge to Hotel Mehran trees on both sides as well as on the median footpath have been felled. The same state of affairs exist on University Road near Mausamiat Chowk.

Trees and plants on roads and central dividers are essential as they are a part of environment and keep the atmosphere relatively cool during daytime. More importantly, they also break the dazzling high-beam lights of the traffic coming from the opposite direction.

But who cares for these social and environmental issues in this concrete jungle called Karachi?

Raihan A. K. Lodhi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2014