Amid rising temperatures and intense summer heat in Sambalpur City of this district, the cutting of a huge decades-old roadside tree near the SP office triggered widespread anger on Monday among local residents.

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The recent incident has raised serious questions about environmental protection and civic accountability at a time when people are desperately seeking shade from the scorching weather.

According to allegations, the massive tree located in front of the Sambalpur SP office was cut down during the reconstruction of a boundary wall. Residents have claimed that the tree was removed without obtaining proper permission from the authorities concerned.

The incident has reportedly caused resentment among locals who regularly used the shade of the tree for rest and relief from the heat. With temperatures soaring across the city, roadside trees have become a crucial source of comfort for pedestrians, rickshaw pullers, vendors, court visitors, and daily commuters.

Locals said the tree served as a resting spot where people would sit during afternoon hours and even have meals under its shade. Following its removal, the area has now become unbearably hot during the daytime.

The incident has sparked debate over who ordered the cutting of such a large tree within the city limits and whether due procedures were followed before the action was taken. Citizens have questioned how a mature tree could be felled in a prominent public area without public knowledge or visible environmental clearance.

Residents further alleged that the Sambalpur Municipal Corporation carried out the action while reconstructing the boundary wall around the SP office premises. The move has now intensified public dissatisfaction, especially during the ongoing heatwave conditions affecting the region.

Reacting to the controversy, the Municipal Commissioner stated that a report has been sought from the Junior Engineer (JE) concerned. The commissioner added that appropriate action would be taken after the report is submitted and reviewed.

Environmental concerns and urban tree conservation have increasingly become major issues in rapidly expanding cities and towns in the State. The incident in Sambalpur has once again highlighted the growing tension between urban development activities and the need to preserve green cover in public spaces.