High-speed winds that struck Amritsar on Thursday evening caused partial damage to the centuries-old Dukh Bhanjani Beri inside the Golden Temple complex. The sacred tree lost several large upper branches, but its main trunk remains completely intact, temple authorities confirmed.
Damage Assessment and Response
Major Singh, Manager of Shri Darbar Sahib, stated that while a few large upper branches broke due to the strong winds, the main trunk is fully safe and intact. He expressed relief that a much larger loss was averted by divine grace. No damage was reported to other historic trees in the complex, including Ber Baba Budha Sahib and Lachi Ber in the parikrama, nor to the tamarind tree outside Akal Takht Sahib.
Clean-Up Operations
On Friday morning, the Darbar Sahib management, along with sewadars, launched a thorough clean-up operation. Broken branches and leaves were removed from the parikrama and the holy sarovar. The premises were quickly cleaned and restored for devotees. Many devotees were seen collecting leaves and fruits that had fallen from the damaged branches, reflecting the deep faith associated with the sacred tree.
The severe storm also damaged canopies and temporary coverings installed within the Golden Temple complex. Major Singh noted that such damage to trees and temporary structures is natural during severe storms, but no major loss occurred.
Conservation Efforts
Since 2005, the historic Ber trees within the Golden Temple complex have been under scientific care by experts from Punjab Agricultural University. Continuous conservation efforts have rejuvenated these centuries-old trees, whose trunks had weakened with age. As a result, the trees have been bearing fruit again since 2018.
