Environmental Policy Group urges Chinar tree conservation in Kashmir

The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has called on the Jammu and Kashmir government to prioritize the preservation of mature Chinar trees during infrastructure and road-widening projects. EPG Convener Faiz Bakshi stated that the trees, which serve as cultural and historical emblems of the region, should not be sacrificed for developmental convenience.

Bakshi urged authorities to explore alternative road alignments and design modifications to avoid felling mature Chinars. He emphasized that these trees provide essential ecological benefits, such as carbon absorption and temperature regulation, which cannot be immediately replaced by new saplings. The call for conservation follows reported remarks by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in Ganderbal, where he suggested a need for a balanced view regarding trees that hinder road expansion.