Varanasi: In a remarkable conservation effort, the Institute Works Department of IIT-BHU teamed up with the Horticulture Department of Banaras Hindu University to save a nearly century-old peepal tree that had been uprooted during recent heavy rains and storms in the city.

"The Peepal tree was uprooted during recent storms in Banaras. Our team from IIT (BHU), along with experts from the Horticulture Department of Banaras Hindu University, examined the tree. Many people were attached to it, as it was nearly 100 years old. Locals often sat under its shade, drank tea, and held discussions there. They expressed a strong desire for the tree to be restored at the same spot," said Manish Kumar, Superintending Engineer, Institute Construction Department, IIT BHU.

The skilled crew carefully lifted and moved the tree, making sure its roots remained intact, using excavators and cranes. To help the tree recover, they put in a water and nutrient management system and strengthened the surrounding soil.

Senior Officer, Horticulture Department, BHU, Ashwini Kumar Deswal said that "Trees like the banyan and peepal have long lifespans. The girth of this particular tree measures 5.03 metres, and based on this, its age is estimated to be over 100 years, or at least between 90 and 100 years. When the decision was made to restore the tree, we carefully assessed the situation and initiated the revival process. We made proper pits, and the roots were re-established under favourable conditions with the addition of root hormones to support recovery and growth.’’

This joint effort by IIT-BHU and BHU’s Horticulture Department not only saved a historic tree but also set an inspiring example of environmental conservation in the city.