(MBPP pic)GEORGE TOWN : Root rot and a cavity in the base of a 90-year-old Angsana tree, compounded by chronic soil compaction and limited rooting space, contributed to its collapse along Jalan Macalister here today. Penang Island city council (MBPP) mayor A Rajendran said the 28m-tall tree, Pterocarpus indicus, had an estimated 30% root rot, while cavity decay accounted for about 40% of its base trunk. “The collapse was caused by root rot estimated at around 30% and base trunk cavities at about 40%. He said MBPP began removing the fallen tree at 9.41am, and the road reopened at 2.20 pm after clearing works were completed. Rajendran said MBPP continues to prioritise trees posing safety risks, particularly those affected by infrastructure works and restricted rooting conditions.