TNR News Network
Shimla:
A decorative green tree standing directly in front of the newly installed statue of former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh at the historic Ridge has mysteriously disappeared overnight, sparking controversy and confusion among local authorities and the public alike.
The tree, located in Daulat Singh Park, was last seen on Monday (October 6, 2025) evening, but by Tuesday morning, it vanished along with its roots. Regular walkers and tourists were the first to notice the absence and raised concerns over the silent removal of one of the few remaining patches of greenery on the Ridge.
Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said he was aware of the matter and assured the public that a probe would be initiated to find out how and why the tree was removed.
“If the tree in front of Virbhadra Singh ji’s statue was deliberately removed, then it is indeed wrong. We will investigate and get to the bottom of it,” said the CM, responding to media queries in Shimla.
Officials in denial, blame game begins
The disappearance has led to a round of finger-pointing among government departments. The Public Works Department (PWD), which is headed by Virbhadra Singh’s son minister Vikramaditya Singh, was responsible for installing the statue, distanced itself from the incident. A senior official said the Ridge area fell under the jurisdiction of the Municipal Corporation. The official said the PWD only erected the statue and was not involved with trees or landscaping.
The Shimla Municipal Corporation, meanwhile, denied removing any tree. A senior official said no tree had been removed by the MC. He said they had not issued any order or permission to remove vegetation from the park.
The Forest Department also claimed ignorance. Officials stated that they had received no complaint or request regarding tree removal from the Ridge and would now conduct their own assessment.
Citizens raise alarm over declining green cover
Locals and environmentalists have expressed disappointment, saying the Ridge was already facing a severe lack of greenery. “First the flower beds and shrubs were removed, and now even the decorative trees are disappearing one by one,” said a morning walker who frequents Daulat Singh Park.
Environmental groups have urged the authorities to ensure transparency and accountability, especially when it comes to green spaces in urban heritage zones like the Ridge.
