Banyan Tree Collapse: Narrow Escape for Consumers in Ration Shop Mishap
Kalyanpur (Tripura), Dec 8: A large branch from an ageing banyan tree collapsed on a government ration shop in Shantinigar market in Tripura on Monday afternoon.
This mishap resulted in destroying the structure of the shop and leaving the dealer and several consumers trapped under the debris.
No fatalities were reported, though witnesses say the incident could easily have turned tragic.
The shop was operating as usual when the decades-old tree, reportedly in a decayed condition, gave way today.
Ration dealer Umapada Das was among those trapped inside. Locals rushed to the spot after hearing his cries and managed to pull him out. Several customers who were present to collect their supplies also escaped with their lives.
Residents claim that warnings about the tree had been repeatedly raised with the Forest Department through the local panchayat, but no action was taken. Many argue the collapse was only a matter of time.
“We informed the authorities several times, but nothing was done. Today the accident happened right before our eyes,” said one local resident.
The incident sparked anger in the area, with a crowd gathering in protest and criticising what they described as administrative negligence.
Locals are now demanding the immediate removal of hazardous trees in the market to prevent further accidents.
The dealer estimates the damage to the shop at several lakh rupees.
Officials have communicated the incident to the Teliamura Sub-Divisional Magistrate, while panchayat authorities are working to restore normal distribution services.
No injuries have yet been officially reported.
