Efforts to cut down a large banyan tree in Vilimale’ came to a standstill today after an environmental activist climbed the tree and lay across one of its branches in protest.
The tree is one of two banyan trees slated for removal following a vote overseen by President Mohamed Muizzu during a meeting with Vilimale’ residents. It remains unclear which agency is currently tasked with the felling.
An eyewitness at the scene informed Adhadhu that Ahmed Niyaz, the founder of the Maldives Space Research Organisation (MSRO), climbed the tree to protest its destruction.
Police have since removed him from the site. Niyaz descended of his own accord after negotiations with officers. Photos show him positioned approximately 25 feet high in the tree’s canopy.
The push to remove the banyan trees comes from a group of local residents who have lobbied the government, claiming the sprawling root systems are causing structural damage to nearby houses. However, opponents of the plan argue that technical solutions exist to protect the buildings without destroying the trees.
The decision to proceed with the removal was finalised during a meeting Muizzu held with the Vilimale’ community in November 2025.
