Puri, 8th Aug 2025: In a surprising move aimed at beautification, guava trees have been planted on the roof of the Srimandir office building. The sight has left many onlookers stunned. This unusual step has been taken by the administration for enhancing the aesthetics of the structure.
The newly constructed building adjacent to the Srimandir office houses donation counters and a sales stall on the ground floor. Although the second floor is yet to be completed, nearly 20 guava trees have already been planted on the roof for beautification purposes. Similarly, small guava plants placed in flower pots have also been positioned in the front area at the base of the building.
Typically, trees like guava and coconut grow well when planted directly in the ground, allowing for proper height and fruiting. Hence, planting them in pots has become a topic of public discussion and concern.
A similar approach has been noticed around the Srimandir Parikrama path and other parts of the Shreekhetra area, where trees were planted in pots as part of beautification drives, but many have dried up or withered. This has drawn public dissatisfaction, as trees are considered vital for sustaining life and deserve proper care.
Though the government promotes tree plantation through campaigns like “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in Mother’s Name), the practice of planting large fruit-bearing trees like guava and coconut in flower pots instead of using more suitable small ornamental plants has raised questions about planning and execution.