This letter is to bring to your immediate attention a critical issue concerning a coconut tree located on public land, specifically at the cusp of the addresses 84-5/10, 8th Main 3rd C Cross, Sadanandanagar, Bangalore 560038 and No. 85, 8th Main 3rd Cross, 8th C Main, Grape Garden, Near NGEF, Sadanandanagar, Bennigana Halli, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560038, India. A photograph of the tree is attached for your reference.

I wish to formally and unequivocally state that I, as the resident of 84-5/10, hereby disown any and all responsibility, accountability, or liability for this street coconut tree, its maintenance, its produce, or any incidents that may arise from it.

My legal understanding, based on the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976, and Section 12 of the India Code, confirms that trees planted on public land, such as streets, unequivocally vest in the Government or the local authority, i.e., the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). Therefore, the ownership, maintenance, and associated liabilities of this tree rest solely with your esteemed departments.

The primary concern necessitating your urgent intervention is public safety. The tree regularly bears coconuts, which, when ripe, pose a significant and direct hazard to pedestrians, children, and parked vehicles on the public road below. The potential for serious injury or property damage from falling coconuts is substantial and requires immediate mitigation by the rightful custodians of this public asset.

Furthermore, the lack of clear ownership and management has led to escalating public nuisance and unrest in the street. On July 2, 2025, between 5:00 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. IST, a major public disturbance occurred in the immediate vicinity of this tree, involving unauthorized attempts to harvest coconuts by the street residents. This incident severely disrupted public peace and created an unsafe environment for all residents. We possess video and CCTV footage of this incident, which can be provided upon request.

Given the above, I respectfully but firmly demand that your departments take immediate and decisive action in accordance with your statutory duties and responsibilities:

1.     Immediate Inspection and Hazard Assessment: Conduct an urgent inspection of the said coconut tree to assess the public safety risk posed by falling coconuts and its overall health.

2.     Timely Harvesting/Pruning: Implement a regular schedule for the harvesting of coconuts or necessary pruning to eliminate the hazard to the public and property. This falls under the BBMP Forest Department's responsibility for "Tree Canopy Management."

3.     Assumption of Full Responsibility: Formally acknowledge and assume full responsibility for the tree, its maintenance, and any future incidents (injury to persons or damage to property, including parked vehicles) arising from its presence on public land. This is critical to avoid future unrest and quarrels among the neighbours, as the current ambiguity and lack of official intervention are direct contributors to the ongoing disputes.

4.     Action Against Unauthorized Interference: Take appropriate legal action against any individuals or groups who engage in unauthorized harvesting or interference with this public tree, as such acts constitute theft and damage to public property under relevant laws.

It is paramount that the BBMP and the Karnataka Forest Department exercise their powers and fulfil their duties under the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976, and other applicable laws, to ensure the safety of the public and maintain peace in our residential area. Your proactive management of this public tree will prevent further disputes and potential harm.

I look forward to your prompt response and decisive action on this matter. Please provide a timeline for the inspection and subsequent management of the tree.