The Economic Times

150 years ago, Britishers brought a South American tree to stop desertification in Thar, now it has become a thorny issue in India

Vilayati babul, introduced during colonial times, remains a subject of ongoing debate. This invasive tree provided fuelwood and livelihoods but now threatens native vegetation. Its rapid spread consumes groundwater and restricts grazing areas for local communities. Research indicates a significant decline in plant diversity where it has invaded. The species presents a complex ecological and economic challenge for India.