Srinagar, Mar 15: Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir Irfan Rasool Wani Saturday said that number the reason behind the declining number of Chinars was urban expansion and developmental projects. He, however, pledged to protect the heritage stating that the department will plant 2500 Chinars this year.
“Since Chinar is a large tree that requires space to expand, the department will carefully select suitable locations for plantation,” said CCF Kashmir on the occasion of Chinar Day at Chinar Bagh. The event aimed to raise awareness about Chinar, which holds immense heritage value in Kashmir.
Wani said that Chinar is also the official tree of Jammu and Kashmir. “However, its numbers are declining due to urban expansion and development projects, which have led to the sacrifice of many Chinar trees,” he said.
CCF Kashmir said that there is a need to spread awareness, particularly regarding conservation efforts. “We organised a programme where students from nine schools participated in a painting competition based on the theme of Chinar. A heritage walk was also conducted, educating children about the ecological and historical significance of Chinar. Besides, an interaction session was held with students, civil society members and NGOs.” On the recent initiative of assigning digital Aadhaar numbers to Chinar trees, he said. “We have launched a tree digital Aadhaar programme in collaboration with the Forest Department and J&K FRI. This initiative records the features and locations of each tree, assigning a unique Aadhaar number. We have already surveyed 28,000 Chinar trees in the census, and each will receive a unique ID number.”
He described this initiative as a first-of-its-kind in J&K and part of the Chinar Conservation Project. “Chinar trees are mainly found in Kashmir and some parts of the Chenab region, such as Kishtwar. We are committed to their conservation and plan to complete this project within three years.”
About the decline in Chinar trees, CCF Kashmir admitted that some had to be removed for road expansion projects. “For example, we had to remove Chinar trees for the Srinagar-Baramulla national highway project. When our forefathers planted these trees 100 or 200 years ago, the region was different. With urbanisation, new roads and infrastructure projects have emerged, forcing us to remove some of these trees.” He added the need for urban planning that prioritizes the conservation of old trees. “We must design our projects in a way that preserves these trees. Conservation is a shared responsibility, and every individual must play their part.” CCF Kashmir further called for collective efforts to prevent further felling of Chinar trees. “The department has set a target of planting 2,500 Chinar trees this year. Since Chinar is a large tree, it requires ample space to grow. We must avoid planting it in small, congested areas. That is why we are planting fewer trees but in well-suited locations.”
KU’s South Campus celebrates Chinar Day with plantation drive
The South Campus of the University of Kashmir (KU) Saturday celebrated Chinar Day, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation.
The event, aimed at promoting ecological awareness, was marked by the launch of a Chinar plantation drive to enrich the green cover of the campus. The occasion was graced by Shakeel ul Rehman, Director of Floriculture, Kashmir, as the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, Rehman emphasised the cultural and ecological significance of Chinar trees in the region and called for collective efforts in their preservation. He highlighted the necessity of sustainable environmental practices to safeguard Kashmir’s rich natural heritage.Addressing the gathering, Director South Campus, Prof. Waseem Bari, underscored the importance of engaging in environmental conservation. “Planting Chinar trees is not just an act of afforestation; it is a responsibility towards our environment and future generations. It is imperative that we take conscious steps to protect and enhance our ecosystem,” he said. The Chinar plantation drive saw enthusiastic participation from students, faculty members, and environmental enthusiasts. The initiative aims to plant Chinar trees across the campus, further enhancing its natural beauty and ecological balance. The Chinar tree, a symbol of Kashmir’s heritage, holds great environmental value by providing shade, supporting biodiversity, and contributing to climate resilience. The South Campus of the University of Kashmir continues to take proactive steps toward fostering ecological awareness and remains committed to creating a greener and more sustainable future.
