Srinagar, Oct 16: Environmental Policy Group (EPG) Convener Faiz Bakshi has expressed serious concern over Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s remarks in Ganderbal regarding the felling of chinar trees for development, stating that infrastructure expansion must not come at the cost of Kashmir’s natural and cultural heritage.
Bakshi said the reported remarks, in which the Chief Minister observed that people from Kashmir and even Mumbai raise objections whenever chinars are cut, highlight the need for a balanced approach to development that respects the region’s ecological and historical legacy.
“Chinar is not just another tree standing along a road. It is a living symbol of Kashmir’s heritage, history and cultural identity. For generations, these magnificent trees have defined the Valley’s landscape. Their value cannot be measured merely in terms of the space they occupy or the convenience they offer to road-widening projects,” Bakshi said.
He pointed out that the government’s commitment to environmental conservation must be reflected in its decisions on the ground. While improved roads and infrastructure are necessary, the removal of mature chinars should not be treated as an inevitable consequence of development without first exploring alternatives.
Bakshi said the chinar, locally known as “Bouin”
holds immense cultural, historical and ecological significance in Jammu and Kashmir. The tree is deeply rooted in the region’s traditions and landscape, while its expansive canopy provides shade, supports biodiversity, absorbs carbon and helps regulate local temperatures. Mature trees take decades to develop, and newly planted saplings cannot immediately replace their ecological benefits.
“It is contradictory that, on one hand, the government talks about environmental protection, while, on the other, the cutting of chinars is presented as a necessary price of development. Environmental commitments must translate into concrete action,” he said.
The EPG Convener clarified that the Group does not oppose development but believes that infrastructure projects must incorporate environmental safeguards. He urged the government to explore alternative road alignments and design modifications and undertake proper assessments before approving the felling of mature trees.
Bakshi also said public concern over chinar conservation, including from people outside Kashmir, should be welcomed rather than viewed as an objection to development.
“The concern expressed by people from Mumbai and elsewhere reflects the wider recognition of Kashmir’s natural heritage. The chinar belongs to our history and identity, and protecting it is our collective responsibility,” he said.
He urged the Chief Minister to direct the concerned departments to prioritise chinar preservation, particularly in Ganderbal, and ensure that felling is considered only as a last resort after all feasible alternatives have been examined.
“Kashmir needs development, but not at the cost of its identity. True progress lies in building better infrastructure while protecting the natural heritage we must pass on to future generations,” Bakshi added.
