ONLY a stump now remains of the 50-year-old wild fig tree that had become a landmark at Empangeni High School – and an abode for birds.
This after the school management was left with no option but to cut down the indigenous tree, as it posed a risk to both pupils and property.
The decision, however, did not go down well with local residents and nature lovers, who said the tree was a popular meeting spot for hornbills and lourie birds during the past five decades.
‘This tree was shredded to a heap of logs and sawdust. All that is left is this empty space, reminding everyone of the calls of the birds that will no longer be. This is a sad state of affairs as other trees have also fallen down to most probably the same fate – firewood!’ said an Empangeni resident.
Damage
In response, Empangeni High Principal Zelma Matthee said big branches had broken off in the parking lot owing to rot, damaging vehicles of visitors and staff.
‘We dare not take the risk that pupils could pay a terrible price for shade,’ said Matthee.
‘The decision to cut down the tree was not taken lightly. Yes, the gorgeous old girl was a treasure to the school, but the safety of property and especially the precious lives of our pupils and teachers are paramount.
‘Every day her stump makes us aware of our loss. Yet the laughter and screams of happy safe pupils seems to be the price we must pay.’
She said the school intended on planting new trees that would benefit generations to come as pupils often stood around that area during their lunch breaks and physical education periods.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife confirmed that the tree was not specially protected and it was within the school’s right to remove a tree within their premises as it posed a danger.
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