Soon, a 'tree ambulance' in national capital

The old trees which enhance the soothing green look of New Delhi but suffer from"age-related" problems, will now have a saviour - the'tree ambulance'.

The unique plan is a part of measures envisaged by the New Delhi Municipal Council for better conservation of trees.

"The Horticulture Department of the NDMC will set up a plant protection cell equipped with adequate infrastructure. Initially, a tree ambulance will be launched in the coming year," NDMC Chairman Parimal Rai told reporters after unveiling the civic body's budget for 2009-10.

The ambulance, perhaps the first of its kind initiative in the country, will carry Horticulture Department staff and necessary equipment for"treatment"of trees. The vehicle will roam around and check if any tree has suffered any damage.

" Like human beings, trees also suffer from age-related problems and can be salvaged by treatment. This will help in increasing the longevity of the trees," Rai said.