Heritage enthusiasts in Peshawar have raised concerns following the removal of an ancient tree in the city center during the observance of World Environment Day on June 5. The tree, located in the Shah Wali Qataal neighborhood near the historic Qissa Khwani Bazaar, was estimated to be 500 years old. Notably, this area is home to relatives of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan. The residents reported that the tree, standing at 15 feet tall with a trunk diameter of five feet, was cut down overnight in the presence of government officials, and its remnants were swiftly removed to avoid community backlash.
This incident echoes a previous attempt six months ago to fell the same tree, which was halted following media attention. Allegedly, the tree was sacrificed to expand a neighboring government-owned shop and boost revenue, prioritizing financial gains over the city’s heritage and environment. Taj Muhammad, Shah Rukh Khan’s late father, was born in this neighborhood, and the actor has visited his ancestral home twice. Cultural and environmental experts have expressed alarm, emphasizing the importance of protecting Peshawar’s ancient trees, which are integral to its tangible heritage. They highlighted several other significant trees in the walled city that require safeguarding, including those near Rampura Gate, Bajaz Larha, Sakhi Murad Shah shrine, and the City Railways Station in Faiqirabad.
