Pulpally: The massive old teak tree, a familiar landmark that for long spread its shade over the gateway to Pulpally from Mullankolly  and silently beckoned passersby, has faded into memory. The towering tree, which for years had stood in the way of widening the Perikkallur - Pulpally - Bathery road, was felled yesterday. More than a century old, it had a girth of over 12 feet and rose to a height of nearly 70 feet.

The tree had suffered damage at several points, with its growth stunted and signs of decay evident. Complaints had earlier been raised that the weakened tree posed a threat to nearby institutions, especially during heavy rain and strong winds, raising fears that it could be uprooted. Standing close to the road, it had also been the cause of several accidents, with many vehicles crashing into it.

 Many insisted that the tree should have to be removed once the road is widenened.  The road development works from Mullankolly were even temporarily stalled due to the tree obstructing progress.The felling operation, which began on Friday morning, was completed by noon and drew a large number of onlookers.

Though those who had run small businesses under the tree and children who once played beneath its shade felt a deep sense of loss, there was no protest, as the removal was widely seen as necessary for the development of the area. For decades, the teak tree had served as a key landmark, forming the basis of addresses for many in the locality.

For years, it also served as a familiar waiting point for students of the Sandeepani College that once functioned here. Even today, the addresses of several firms in the area continue to be identified as being `beneath the teak tree'.