Uprooted Baobab tree replanted

RANCHI: The Jharkhand forest department has replanted a rare African Baobab tree that got uprooted three months ago.

Baobab tree, popularly known in India as Kalpataru - a tree that fulfils all wishes, got uprooted in this state capital in a storm in April. The tree was grounded for three months and local beliefs prevented people from cutting it.

The forest department finally woke up from its inaction and decided to replant the tree on experimental basis. Officials started their effort in June last week and finally replanted the tree on Sunday with the help of a crane.

“We have used some chemical to ensure that the tree grows new roots and survives,” said Mahendra Kardam, regional conservator of forest.

Asked about the chances of its survival, he said: “We cannot say anything unless new roots grow.”

Forest officials said only nine Kalpataru trees are found in India and five of them are in Ranchi. The tree also has medicinal value.

According to experts, many trees in Ranchi are more than 150 years old.