THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, May 15: A joint rescue operation by the Medininagar Forest Division and the Medininagar Municipal Corporation successfully removed massive branches of a eucalyptus tree that had fallen on a house balcony in Nawa Toli near Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya in Daltonganj following Wednesday’s storm.
According to sources, DFO Medininagar Satyam Kumar was informed about the incident after large branches of the eucalyptus tree crashed onto the balcony of Danish’s house, popularly known as Chhotu.
Acting swiftly, the DFO deployed the forest division rescue team and arranged logistical support from local saw mill owners for the safe removal of the dangerous tree branches.
Incharge City Commissioner Md Jawed Hussain also sent municipal corporation teams to the spot to assist in the operation. Men and machines from the municipal corporation were engaged under the close supervision of the civic authorities.
Removal operation continued till evening
The branch removal work started on Thursday afternoon and continued till late evening due to the size and risk posed by the fallen eucalyptus tree.
The operation also faced challenges as a large number of curious onlookers gathered near the site despite repeated warnings to stay away from the danger zone.
Speaking on the incident, DFO Satyam Kumar said, “About two or three weeks ago, someone had approached for permission to remove the eucalyptus tree, and the felling order was duly granted. However, no action was taken despite the approval.”
He added that the delay in cutting the tree resulted in the branches collapsing during the powerful storm on Wednesday.
Old trees near school pose danger during storms
Officials said Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya has several old, weakening tall trees that could become hazardous during high-wind conditions and storms.
Residents of the area, including Danish, appreciated the coordinated efforts of the forest and municipal corporation teams. They described the rescue and removal work as “very timely and efficient.”
Storm turns deadly in parts of Palamu
While Daltonganj did not report any casualties, the storm claimed two lives in other parts of Palamu district.
In Haidernagar, a peepul tree fell on a motorist, killing him on the spot. In Lesliganj, branches of a mahua tree fell on a 17-year-old boy carrying DJ sound boxes, leading to his instant death during the storm.
