Locals said the sprawling tree had long provided shade, shelter to hundreds of birds, and fresh oxygen to the area.

“It was a lush, thriving tree with deep roots that breathed life into the air,” one resident remarked.

Environmental experts condemned the felling, warning that such actions in a pollution-choked city like Lahore would only worsen the situation.

“Every mature tree in Lahore is invaluable; its ecological contribution cannot be replaced by any new plantation drive,” an expert noted.

They said the destruction of the century-and-a-half-old banyan was not just an environmental loss but also a blow to Lahore’s historical identity, urging authorities to ensure stronger protection for old and heritage trees across the city.