For ailing green cover, NDMC now has ‘tree ambulance’

Officials have announced the launch of a ‘tree ambulance’ initiative by the NDMC to cater to the needs of ailing trees and uphold the greenery within its jurisdiction.

The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has introduced an environmentally friendly CNG-powered ‘tree ambulance,’ specially outfitted with two water tanks, one with a capacity of 750 litres and the other with 250 litres, along with a high-pressure pump equipped with a jetting hose. Additionally, it includes compartments for transporting equipment, pesticides, fungicides, insecticides, and other necessary items.

A dedicated team will operate within the ambulance, tasked with assessing the health of trees and addressing complaints or reports received from field personnel regarding issues such as pest infestation, hollow or withering trees, and the need for treatment or regular tree washing.

The primary purpose of the tree ambulance is to provide treatment for ailing trees afflicted by diseases, pests, termites, etc. Specifically, trees with hollow trunks will undergo a restorative procedure akin to surgery. This process entails the removal of infected or hollowed-out sections, thorough cleaning, application of insecticides and fungicides, filling the hollow space with inert material like foam, and securing it with chicken mesh and sealant.

The NDMC’s jurisdiction encompasses an extensive green landscape, boasting approximately 180,000 trees. Additionally, the council oversees the maintenance of approximately 1500 acres of green space, 135 green avenues, 10 major parks, 1400 residential colony parks, 50 roundabouts, and 10 departmental nurseries, including three high-tech facilities.

Furthermore, it manages three international relationship memorial parks and various recreational areas and gardens such as Nehru Park, Lodi Garden, Talkatora Garden, Sanjay Jheel, Children’s Park – India Gate, Central Parks at Connaught Place, CWG Park, and Shanti Path.

(With PTI inputs)