A tree in Kaladhungi, said to be about 100 years old under which hunter-conservationist Jim Corbett is believed to have held meetings has developed cracks on some of its branches due to strong winds in the recent past.
A large Kanju (Holoptelea integrifolia) or Indian Elm tree is located in the campus of the Jim Corbett museum in Kaladhungi. Said to be about 100 years old, this tree has been a prominent feature of this place.
Two of its large branches developed cracks following strong winds experienced in the recent past.
It is said that Corbett himself used to hold chaupals (meetings) in the shade of this very tree.
Presently, visitors to the Corbett museum also enjoy the shade of this tree located near the museum.
The museum in-charge Umed Singh Nagarkoti had informed in writing to the Ramnagar range office for lopping of this tree to avoid damage in case the branches fall.
Nagarkoti informed that Corbett is said to have held meets under this tree which is now about a century old.
It is also said that when an unusually large tiger was active in the Kaulagarh area, Corbett reached the area and managed to kill the big cat.
The said tiger is also reported to have been buried under this tree. It now remains to be seen as to what the department does to ensure the protection of this tree which is not only environmentally valuable but also historically important.
