Munger/Patna: A nearly 700-year-old banyan tree located within the ITC Park campus in Munger is set to be declared a heritage tree, with the Bihar forest department initiating steps for its formal recognition and conservation.
The tree, identified as one of the country’s oldest living trees through scientific assessment, is expected to receive special protection under a long-term preservation programme involving experts and researchers.
Scientific Study Confirms Age
The tree came under scrutiny after the Bihar Biodiversity Board conducted a survey of 32 ancient trees across the state in 2022. Three trees from Munger were included in the survey.
Researchers from the Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences, Lucknow, subsequently examined the banyan tree. A team led by scientists Dr Trina Bose and Avneesh Mishra collected samples from the trunk and dried aerial roots for carbon-dating analysis.
According to the findings, the banyan tree is approximately 700 years old, placing it among the oldest known living trees in India.
A Landmark Spread Across 100 Metres
The banyan tree is located within the residential premises of ITC officials and spans an area of about 100 metres. It stands nearly 60 feet tall.
Over the centuries, hundreds of aerial roots have reached the ground and developed into supporting trunks, giving the tree the appearance of a small forest.
Officials say the tree has withstood major natural events, including the devastating 1934 Bihar earthquake. Company records also indicate that the tree was already present when the factory was established in 1906.
Heritage Status and Conservation Plans
Forest Divisional Officer Amrish Kumar Mall said the process of declaring the tree a heritage tree has begun.
Once notified, a comprehensive conservation strategy will be prepared with assistance from scientists and technical experts. The plan is expected to include regular monitoring, scientific assessment and biological treatment measures to ensure the tree’s long-term survival.
Challenges in Preservation
Experts have highlighted the complexity of preserving a tree of such age and size.
Dr Anil Paswan, Dean of the Bihar Forestry College and Research Institute (BFCRI), said continuous maintenance of the tree’s extensive branches and root system would be essential.
He noted that aerial roots may require bamboo or artificial supports to help them reach the ground safely. Periodic inspections will also be necessary to protect the tree from termites, fungal infections and age-related deterioration.
Adequate water management, soil care and measures to ensure sufficient oxygen and nutrient supply to the roots will form important components of the conservation effort.
Cultural and Ecological Significance
Experts say preserving the banyan tree is not only an environmental initiative but also an effort to protect a valuable part of the region’s cultural and historical heritage.
With its age, scale and resilience, the tree has become a prominent natural landmark in Munger and is expected to serve as an enduring symbol of the district’s ecological legacy for generations to come.
