The ‘Saintly’ Tree of Thar

Ali Nawaz Rahimoo

Tharparkar: In the vast desert landscape of Tharparkar, where harsh summers, limited rainfall, and changing climate patterns define everyday life, the arrival of spring brings a rare burst of colour through the blooming Rohiro tree.

With its bright red, orange, and yellow flowers, the Rohiro (Tecomella undulata) transforms parts of the desert into a vibrant landscape. But beyond its beauty, the tree represents something far deeper for the people of Thar,  a symbol of survival, cultural identity, and the fragile relationship between humans and nature.

For generations, communities in Tharparkar have maintained a unique bond with the Rohiro tree. In a region where vegetation is limited and survival depends on harmony with the environment, the tree has earned a place of respect in local traditions.

Known for its strength and durable wood, Rohiro has traditionally been used in construction and carpentry. However, its cultural and spiritual importance has protected it from widespread exploitation for decades.

For many Tharis, cutting down a Rohiro tree is considered a serious wrongdoing, similar to harming animals that hold cultural significance, such as peacocks.

“The Rohiro and peacock are deeply connected with the identity of Thar. Their protection is part of local values,” says Manzoor Hassan Bhatti, a social development professional familiar with the region’s social and environmental landscape.

During the flowering season, the tree becomes a source of attraction not only for people but also for livestock. Camels, goats, and sheep are drawn toward its flowers, making it an important part of the desert ecosystem.

Tharparkar is home to a unique combination of plants and wildlife that have adapted to extreme conditions. The Rohiro tree plays an important role in maintaining this fragile ecological balance.

However, increasing human pressure, climate change, and illegal tree cutting are threatening the survival of this desert species.

Despite government restrictions on cutting Rohiro trees, conservationists say illegal logging continues in parts of Tharparkar. The high commercial value of its timber has attracted groups involved in unauthorized cutting, putting old and mature trees at risk.

Environmental experts warn that losing these trees would not only damage biodiversity but also weaken the natural resilience of desert communities already facing the effects of climate change.

The Sindh government has imposed restrictions on the cutting of Rohiro trees to protect the species and preserve the region’s natural heritage. However, conservation advocates argue that laws alone are not enough.

They stress the need for stronger enforcement, community participation, and awareness campaigns to ensure that protection measures are effectively implemented.

Local residents have also raised concerns over large-scale tree cutting in areas including Chachro, Nagarparkar, Islamkot, and Dahli talukas. They have called for stricter measures, including the implementation of Section 144 in sensitive areas, to prevent illegal logging and control desert degradation.

The struggle to protect Rohiro is taking place against the backdrop of a changing climate. Rising temperatures, irregular rainfall, droughts, and land degradation are already affecting Tharparkar’s environment.

Trees like Rohiro play a critical role in maintaining soil stability, supporting biodiversity, and helping communities adapt to difficult climatic conditions.

Their loss could accelerate desertification and make already vulnerable areas even more fragile.

The relationship between Tharis and the Rohiro tree offers an example of how cultural traditions can support environmental protection.

For centuries, local beliefs have encouraged communities to protect certain species and maintain balance with nature. Conservation experts believe that combining these traditional values with modern environmental policies can provide a stronger foundation for protecting Thar’s ecosystem.

The Rohiro is not simply a desert tree. It carries stories of resilience, survival, and coexistence.

As its colourful flowers return each spring, they serve as both a celebration of nature’s endurance and a reminder that protecting the desert’s heritage requires collective action.

Saving the Rohiro means preserving not only a species, but also a way of life that has survived alongside it for generations.

As its colourful flowers return each spring, they serve as both a celebration of nature’s endurance and a reminder that protecting the desert’s heritage requires collective action.

Saving the Rohiro means preserving not only a species, but also a way of life that has survived alongside it for generations.

Every sensible and conscien­tious person was concerned over the dangerous impact of deforestation.

The writer is a social development professional. He can be contacted on anrahimoo@gmail.com.