The Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) said yesterday that it will remove a Masson’s pine tree, scientifically known as Pinus massoniana, on the main walking and running trail on Guia Hill later this month as it poses a risk of collapse.
A statement by the bureau yesterday said that IAM inspectors recently identified the tree’s risk of collapse during a routine inspection.
Masson’s pine is also known as Chinese red pine.
The 1,700-metre-long Guia Hill Jogging Path is part of the Guia Hill Municipal Park.
The statement said that the 18-metre-high Masson’s pine, located next to the mural on the path, has a trunk diameter of 42 centimetres. Due to its confined growing space, the statement noted, the tree’s root development has been restricted.
The statement underlined that the tree is in poor health, indicated by sparse foliage, a hollowed base, and dried roots.
The statement said that the tree’s condition is adversely affecting its structural stability. After an evaluation of the tree’s condition, the statement said, the bureau has concluded that it is posing a risk of collapse, because of which it has decided to remove the tree so as to ensure public safety.
During the tree’s removal, members of the public are advised to follow on-site instructions and avoid walking near the area.
This undated handout photo released by the Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) yesterday shows the Masson’s pine tree next to the Guia Hill Jogging Path’s mural.
