Kupwara,Mar,15:Even as the district administration celebrated Chinar Day with much enthusiasm, highlighting the cultural and ecological significance of the majestic Chinar tree, environmentalists have raised alarm over a growing menace—posters and flex boards being nailed onto Chinar trunks across Kupwara district.
In various areas like Kulangam, Baripora, Chotipora, Handwara, Sagipora, Unisoo, Langate, and Ganapora, locals report that the practice of nailing advertisements, posters, and banners onto Chinar trees is rampant, causing serious damage to these heritage trees. Environmental experts warn that such actions harm the vascular system of trees, making them vulnerable to diseases and pests, and in severe cases, may even lead to their death.
A senior citizen expressed concern over this issue, stating, “The government needs to enforce strict laws to prevent this damage. Chinars are not just trees; they are part of Kashmir’s identity.”
Notably, in 2018, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir had issued directives (Letter No. Divcom/2018/149-61/2018) imposing a blanket ban on nailing posters and flex boards onto Chinar trees. The Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar had also taken similar steps through Order No. 06 of 2018 to ensure that all such illegal installations were removed under the J&K Preservation of Specified Trees Act, 1969.
Legal experts emphasize that the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Act of 1980 strictly prohibits damaging or destroying trees without prior permission. However, enforcement of these laws remains weak, allowing violations to continue unchecked.
Meanwhile, in an ambitious conservation effort, the J&K Forest Department and Forest Research Institute (FRI) have geo-tagged nearly 29,000 Chinar trees across the region since 2021. This project aims to digitally document and monitor these heritage trees, ensuring better protection and preservation.
While talking to HEADLINESTODAY, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Ayushi Sudan (IAS)assured that necessary action will be taken against violators. "Strict action will be taken against those responsible for nailing posters on Chinar trees. Concerned agencies have also been directed to remove these posters immediately," she said.
Environmentalists urge authorities that mere symbolic celebrations like Chinar Day or one-day plantation drives are not enough. They stress the need for year-round conservation efforts, especially during the summer months from May to August, when trees are more vulnerable to heat stress.
“The Chinar tree is an emblem of Kashmir’s heritage. We must protect them at all costs,” emphasized an environmentalist, urging both the administration and the public to act responsibly.
With concerns growing, all eyes are now on whether the authorities will translate promises into action and ensure the protection of Kashmir’s iconic Chinar trees from further damage.
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