150-year-old banyan tree restored at Qasr-e-Naz in Karachi

A 150-year-old banyan tree at Qasr-e-Naz on Club Road, which had collapsed during the recent monsoon rains and strong winds, has been successfully restored and replanted through a joint effort of the Sindh Forest Department and Sindh Wildlife officials. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah hailed the restoration as “a vital step in environmental protection” and “a living symbol connecting past and present.” The rescue and rehabilitation process lasted nearly 10 hours over two days, involving heavy machinery, cranes, and the use of special biological treatments. According to Chief Conservator Javed Mahar, the tree’s roots had been damaged due to water scarcity, fungus, and termite attacks. Instead of cutting it down, experts decided to carefully replant and revive the historic tree at a nearby suitable location. During the operation, surrounding neem and kachnar trees were also relocated to safer spots. Deputy Conservator Sindh Wildlife, Mumtaz Soomro, said the banyan was not merely a tree but an “ecological heritage.” He noted that while fallen trees are often cut and discarded, their preservation can play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. The chief minister praised the efforts of the forest and wildlife teams, stating that the initiative was not only about saving a tree but about protecting history, biodiversity, and ensuring a greener, healthier future for the coming generations. He urged youth to recognize the importance of historic trees as “living symbols of heritage and environmental resilience.” Qasr-e-Naz is a government-owned guest lodge situated in the Civil Lines area of Karachi. It primarily serves as accommodation for federal and provincial government officers and parliamentarians during official visits. The facility spans approximately 2.6 acres, with about 0.92 acres of built-up area comprising 64 single rooms and 37 family suites, and the rest serving as open land.

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