On April 26, two large branches of an ancient banyan tree in the area north of Tra Khuc 1 bridge, in Truong Quang Trong ward, Quang Ngai province, suddenly broke and fell down when dozens of people were gathering to worship near the tree stump. Many people panicked and ran away, fortunately there were no casualties.
Mr. Doan Nhan Hoa, Lien Hiep 2B residential group, Truong Quang Trong ward, said: "Two branches of the banyan tree broke and fell right when we were focusing on performing the worship ceremony, causing everyone to panic. Fortunately, everyone stood in the wrong direction, if standing in front of the temple as usual, the consequences would be unpredictable.
Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Dung - Chairwoman of Truong Quang Trong Ward People's Committee said that immediately after receiving the news, local authorities quickly arrived at the scene, coordinated with Quang Ngai Urban Environment Joint Stock Company to organize pruning, collecting broken branches, clearing the scene and diverting traffic through the area.
By noon of the same day, all broken branches had been handled and relocated, ensuring smooth traffic. A light pole and some sections of the surrounding wall around the damaged banyan tree area were also inspected and repaired by functional forces.
This ancient banyan tree is about 300 years old and has been recognized as a Vietnam Heritage Tree.
