'Shameful and depressing'
Basra residents criticize local municipality’s tree-planting project
BASRA — Residents of the Al-Sadiq district in northern Basra have expressed dissatisfaction with the local municipality’s tree-planting project along Al-Alam Road. The initiative, which involved Washingtonia palm trees, has been criticized for its ineffectiveness, marked by the death of several trees.
Locals argue that Washingtonia palms, which are not favored locally and known for their slow growth, were a poor choice, especially given the abundance of native Iraqi palm trees. Instead, they suggest that the municipality should focus on enhancing road safety by installing streetlights and traffic signs, and marking the road that connects the Basra-Qurna Road with main roads in Al-Sadiq and Al-Madina districts and the oil fields.
“The project of planting Washingtonia saplings on one side of Al-Alam Road is a waste of public money by the Al-Sadiq Municipality. The project was doomed from the start as its location on the right shoulder of Al-Alam Road has eliminated the resting area for vehicles,” Alaa Al-Mansouri, a local resident, told 964media.
Hassan Fallah, another resident, voiced his concern: “They wanted to revive this road, but they killed it. The sight of the trees is shameful and depressing as most of them look sick and many are dead.”
Fallah has called for an investigation by the Basra Governorate to determine why such unproductive projects are pursued.
Responding to the criticism, Salah Hanoon, Director of Al-Sadiq Municipality, said, “Planting 150 Washingtonia saplings on the right side of Al-Alam Street is a project within the operational budget of Al-Sadiq Municipality. We intended to revive this street with this small project, choosing the Washingtonia tree for its ability to withstand desert weather conditions. Many of the trees are still alive, and the death of some is natural. We are continuing to water and care for these trees.”
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