With the onset of the monsoons, there are daily news reports of incidents of falling trees in various parts of Goa, resulting in fatalities and damage to property.
At Arossim Beach Road, near the culvert at the final road bend leading to Arossim Beach, there is a tall tree, locally known as the ‘Bhendi’ tree. The branches of this tree overhang both the high tension cables and low tension cables, the latter being below the former.
During the rains accompanied with gusty winds or in a cyclonic storm like situation, this tree sways dangerously in all directions with its branches nearly touching the HT wires. The monsoon has nearly completed the half - way mark but the rain fury during the months of July and August is yet to be experienced. The incessant rains not only loosen the soil but also cause waterlogging at the roots of tree. Hence, the possibility of this moisture laden tree getting uprooted or its boughs breaking and falling cannot be ruled out.
Needless to add, in the event of such a likely eventuality, both sets of power line cables below the hanging branches will snap and lead not only to fatalities and accidents but also a severe power outage in the area. No doubt, this occurrence will also cause avoidable extra work for the Electricity Department in clearing the fallen tree or boughs or branches and restoring the power supply.
During the winter season, Bhendi trees are favourite nesting places of black hairy caterpillars. These caterpillars descend on their silken threads, which are invisible and with a slight puff of wind can land on the person or necks of unsuspecting tourists or residents of the area passing by. Contact with the venomous or irritating hairs causes extreme itch followed by wheals and rash with inflammation, burning sensation and swelling of the affected area. God forbid if the victim's eye gets penetrated with the caterpillar's hair.
This Bhendi tree, therefore, poses a threat to life and damage to property in the area. Hence, there is a dire need to cut this dangerous Bhendi tree, which will eliminate the problem once for all. Alternatively, the boughs and branches of this tree hanging dangerously above the power lines should be regularly cut or trimmed. The Electricity Department should take immediate remedial measures in this regard and not wait to lock the stable door after the steed is stolen.