Hubballi : The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) is set to introduce a ‘Shaktiman’ self-profiled platform for tree cutting and the removal of unwanted branches, in an effort to prevent untoward incidents in the city.
Officials said the platform will be used to address risks posed by overgrown or weakened branches and to support routine maintenance of trees located along roads and in public areas . Corporation sources said the ‘Shaktiman’ platform is intended to assist teams in reaching elevated sections of trees while carrying out cutting work, reducing the difficulty involved in managing large branches and ensuring that such work can be taken up systematically. However, the forest department undertakes the work through a queue system, while HDMC does not follow up on the action taken, according to corporation sources. HDMC additional commissioner Vijay Kumar R said the equipment would enable more efficient field operations and provide personnel with better reach and stability.
The HDMC’s move comes as part of its efforts to improve preparedness and response in dealing with trees that require trimming. HDMC currently depends on the forest department for tree maintenance. Based on complaints received, corporation officials send the department a list of branches requiring pruning.
The tender process and other procurement formalities will be undertaken after the ongoing election code of conduct ends, he said. HDMC decided to procure the two machines after assessing the benefits of ‘Shaktiman’ during a recent demonstration on its premises.