A 200-year-old banyan tree at St. Anthony’s School in Visakhapatnam has drawn attention after being extensively trimmed.

The tree has reportedly been part of the school campus for generations and was once spread across nearly four acres.

Its canopy has gradually reduced to around one acre following storms and earlier trimming.

The latest trimming has left the tree looking significantly thinner, prompting concerns about its future.

A school employee said the trimming was carried out after the management decided to lease part of the institution’s land.

The school has indicated that land is required for its development needs.

The Horticulture Department inspected the tree following concerns raised over the work.

Officials clarified that the tree had been trimmed and not completely cut down.

Authorities have warned the school that any further damage to the tree could attract a substantial penalty.

Officials have also indicated that relocating such an old tree would have a low chance of survival.

Environmental experts have suggested preserving the remaining tree and protecting it under expert supervision.

Residents have expressed concern that the historic banyan is an important part of the neighbourhood’s heritage.