More vigilance needed where people, nature come together

It is important that we do not overreact to the falling tree in the Botanic Gardens. There is no need to cut down trees randomly because of this incident (“Despite safety fears, most want big trees to stay”; Feb 13).

Common sense has prevailed thus far, with checks being done on other trees in the vicinity, especially areas where people tend to pass by or congregate.

It is tragic that a life was lost — all the more now the need for more frequent and stringent checks on trees throughout the island, especially close to places with large concentrations of people and where nature is the main attraction.

This could also benefit the trees, ensuring that they are subject to more scrutiny, so as not to succumb to bad weather, erosion, disease, old age, et cetera, which can cause them to be uprooted and to fall.

More can be done to ensure that when humans and nature come together — which should always be encouraged — it does not lead to circumstances that result in pain or loss of life.

Those who oversee the parks should ensure that all is well, and visitors, too, should be vigilant when visiting.