“A branch of a banyan tree broke and wreaked havoc on the ration supplies.”

A branch of a banyan tree broke and destroyed a ration shop in Durgapur; the dealer narrowly escaped death. A sensational incident took place today at Shantinagar Bazaar under the Durgapur Gram Panchayat. A massive branch from an old, giant banyan tree broke off and completely wrecked the Durgapur ration shop. Ration dealer Umapada Das narrowly escaped with his life.

According to local sources, the ration distribution was in progress when suddenly a heavy branch of the tree came crashing down, piercing through the shop’s roof. Hearing a loud crash and screams, locals rushed to the spot and made every effort to rescue him. A nearby tea stall was also completely destroyed in the incident. Panic spread across the entire area.

Residents alleged that although they had informed the Forest Department several times about the risk of branches falling from the banyan tree standing in the market premises, no action was taken. They claim that the negligence of the Kalyanpur Forest Department is responsible for today’s accident. Meanwhile, angry locals have demanded immediate compensation for the affected shopkeepers. The role of the Forest Department in this incident has come under serious question among the general public.