The Hindu The peepal tree being restored at its original place with the help of earthmoving equipment at Shanti Ashram in Visakhapatnam. - Photo: C.V. Subrahmanyam

One month ago, cyclone Hudhud wiped out the entire green cover in the city. The damage suffered by Sri Shanti Ashram at Lawsons Bay Colony too was extensive. Dozens of trees fell under the impact of high-speed winds.

However, the management has a reason to smile. A 50-year-old peepal tree has been restored and given a new lease of life.

Of all, this tree is considered a prized possession as it was planted by founder of the ashram Swami Omkar.

That is all the more reason for the staff to nurture it at any cost.

People say that they have developed an emotional attachment with the tree over the years.

We did not pin hopes on the ones that were rendered beyond repair. But, with sprouts shooting from the branches of the peepal tree four days after the calamity, we wanted to do our best to restore it. After digging almost six feet deep using an earthmover and a crane, and providing support with heaps of soil covering the huge trunk, the mission was finally accomplished, says M.N. Adinarayana, chairman of the ashram.

Years ago, after our morning workout, the place used to be the meeting spot to relax before heading to our homes. It is such a nice feeling to see the tree back here, says Kumar, one of the regular visitors to the ashram.

With ropes providing support to the branches, people at the ashram hope to see the tree in full bloom in another six months.

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Peepal tree gets a new lease of life