MLA Bijbehara Seeks Inquiry into Felling of Chinar Trees in South Kashmir’s Anantnag
Srinagar, February 26, 2025 – The felling of 500-year-old Chinar trees in Anantnag’s Rani Bagh has evoked sharp criticism from environmentalists and activists. National Conference MLA from Bijbehara, Dr. Bashir Ahmad Veeri, has called for an inquiry into the incident.
Veeri’s Call for Accountability
In a post on X, Veeri stated, “These pictures must be reported to the National Green Tribunal for cognizance & accountability. Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner of Anantnag should initiate a high-level inquiry, book the culprits for vandalizing public property, & impose heavy fines as a deterrent!”.
Environmental and Activist Reactions
The felling of the Chinar trees has sparked outrage among environmentalists and activists. The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) strongly criticized the destruction, emphasizing the immense historical, cultural, and ecological value of these trees. “Their destruction represents a blatant violation of the laws established to protect such heritage and a grave injustice to the legacy of Kashmir,” the EPG stated.
Geo-Tagging Initiative
This incident comes just weeks after the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Research Institute (JKFRI) conducted geo-tagging of Chinar trees in Srinagar. The initiative aimed to safeguard the Chinar trees by assigning each tree a unique identity for monitoring and protection.
Political Reactions
PDP leader Iltija Mufti also expressed her frustration on X, stating, “On even days J&K govt geo tags Chinar trees promoting conservation but on odd days 500-year-old Chinar trees symbolizing history & the very passage of time itself are felled. Infuriating & puzzling. No excuse whatsoever can justify this travesty.”.
Bottom-Line
The felling of centuries-old Chinar trees in Anantnag has raised serious concerns about heritage and environmental protection laws. As calls for accountability grow louder, it is imperative that authorities take decisive action to preserve Kashmir’s natural and cultural heritage.
