IN the unforgiving cycle of weekends, another life has fallen victim to the ruthless acts of weekend killers. This time, it was the solemn demise of yet another banyan tree in Clifton, succumbing to the relentless hands of disregard. Despite the sanctuary granted by the relevant authorities a few years ago, the guardianship it received was futile in the face of purpose-driven destruction.

Our collective response mirrors a fleeting moment of indignation — a fleeting uproar to circulate the gruesome image of the fallen tree, to engage in fervent discussions about holding the perpetrators accountable, only to be swiftly replaced by the next trending topic within days, if not on the day itself.

Banyan trees, like silent sentinels, have stood witness to the passage of time, weathering storms and offering shelter to countless species. Their significance extends beyond their mere existence; they are custodians of life, nurturing not only us, but also thousands of other living entities. Through their expansive canopies, they provide shelter, and through the alchemy of photosynthesis, they gift the world with life-sustaining oxygen.

However, those involved in felling trees remain indifferent to this profound interconnectedness. The value of a tree, a living entity with roots that delve deep into the soil, branches that reach for the sky, and leaves that whisper with the wind, is overshadowed by the convenience of their purpose.

Our disconnection from the consequences of our actions and our transient attention span perpetuate the cycle of environmental degradation. Those involved in cutting old trees persist because we, as a society, fail to forge a sustained commitment to preserving the sanctity of our natural surroundings.

The accompanying photograph of a felled banyan tree serves as a sombre reminder of our collective apathy. It is a snapshot of a recurring tragedy, a symbolic representation of the collateral damage inflicted by weekend killers on the very essence of our existence. Yet, it remains uncertain whether this image will serve as a catalyst for enduring change or will it merely become another forgotten relic in the archives of environmental degradation.

To break free from this cycle, we must acknowledge the profound interconnectedness that binds us to the trees, the silent witnesses to the evolution of life on Earth. By recognising our shared destiny, we can cultivate a deeper sense of responsibility, urging us to transcend the fleeting nature of our reactions.

Let us not forget that people cutting trees are not faceless entities; they are reflections of our collective disregard for the environment. The narrative can change, but it requires a paradigm shift in our perspectives and actions. It demands a conscious effort to prioritise the wellbeing of our planet over short-term gains.

Unfortunately, as another tree prepares to surrender to the killers, the narrative remains poised on the precipice of transformation. The choice is ours; to perpetuate the cycle of indifference, or to embark on a journey of genuine environmental consciousness. The trees, with their timeless wisdom, await our decision, urging us to rise above the transience of our reactions and embrace the enduring responsibility that comes with being the stewards of this planet.

Rashid Hassan Khoso
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 31st, 2024