NATURE lovers are upset that fig trees along Jalan Pantai Cenang have been earmarked for felling to make way for a sewerage project in the area.

Even the lamp posts along the stretch are marked for removal.

Some of the trees that were marked for felling a week ago have been chopped down despite objections from nature lovers.

French lawyer Vanessa Hiette, 30, said it was a shame to chop down the trees along the coastal stretch that provided shade and served as a wind breaker.

She said Pantai Cenang's scenic beauty had been 'spoilt' and the authorities should not have chopped down the trees that lined the road.

Malaysia Nature Society (MNS) Kedah chairman Phang Fatt Khow said trees should not be felled unnecessarily.

"We are not against development, but from the feedback we received, we feel that there is no urgency in felling the trees.

"But if the authorities feel that there is no other choice, they could always look into transplanting the trees elsewhere or replanting them after the project is completed," he said.

Phang said the authorities in Langkawi should look into planting trees that could attract birds.

The fig trees were planted during former Kedah Mentri Besar Tan Sri Sanusi Junid's administration 15 years ago.

Marzuki Shaari, who has made Langkawi his second home, said he loved trees.

"But we must also take into consideration the safety of the pedestrians who are forced to walk on the road as the walkways are blocked by the trees," he said.

Langkawi Development Authority general manager Datuk Kamarulzaman Abd Ghani said the trees had to be chopped down to expand the road to connect the sewerage system of several hotels to the main.

"We need to upgrade the sewerage system to reduce sea pollution along the popular tourist belt. We will replant trees after widening the road as it is part of our landscaping plans," he added.