The race to save Kashmir's iconic chinar trees

A suspected felling of century-old Chinar trees in the Kashmir region (administered by India) has recently sparked strong discontent among local residents. Although the government insists it was merely routine pruning, local residents and photographs indicate that these ancient trees do show signs of being felled, bringing renewed attention to this endangered tree species and its conservation efforts.

Chinar trees are an iconic feature of the Kashmir Valley, especially in the autumn when their leaves turn into fiery reds to warm russets, attracting a large number of tourists. Native to Central Asia, these trees were introduced to Kashmir centuries ago by Mughal emperors and princes, and over the years have become an integral part of Kashmiri culture.

However, rapid urbanization, illegal logging, and climate change are threatening the survival of Chinar trees, prompting authorities to take measures to protect them. The Jammu and Kashmir government has begun geo-tagging Chinar trees in order to track their health. This project includes attaching a QR code to each tree, containing information such as its location, age, and other physical characteristics.

"We are 'digitally conserving' Chinar trees," said Syed Tariq, the scientist in charge of the project. He explained that the information provided by the QR codes can not only help local residents and tourists learn more about the trees, but also help address issues such as illegal or hasty felling. Currently, the project has geo-tagged approximately 29,000 Chinar trees, with another 6,000-7,000 yet to be completed.

Mr. Syed stated that despite the significant cultural heritage value of Chinar trees, there had been no proper statistics kept on these trees previously. Although government records show 40,000 trees, he believes this number is debatable, but he is certain that the number of Chinar trees has decreased. This is a problem because Chinar trees take at least 50 years to reach maturity. Environmentalists say that new plantations face challenges such as reduced space. Furthermore, Chinar trees need a cool climate to survive, but the region has experienced warmer summers and snowless winters in recent years.

Fortunately, these trees can live for hundreds of years – the oldest Chinar tree in the region is believed to be about 700 years old. Most of the trees are at least centuries old, with huge trunks and expansive canopies. Chinar trees received the greatest protection during the Mughal dynasty, from the early 16th century to the mid-19th century. Mr. Syed said that many of the trees present in the valley were planted during this period.

The Mughal kings ruled over much of pre-partition India, and they used Kashmir as a summer retreat due to its cool climate and beautiful scenery. They also built "gardens" – landscape gardens known for their symmetry and greenery – for their entertainment. Chinar trees occupied an important place in these gardens, often planted along canals to enhance the gardens' beauty. Many of these gardens still exist today.

According to government sources, in the 16th century, Mughal Emperor Akbar planted about 1,100 trees in a garden near Srinagar's famous Dal Lake, but about 400 trees have died over the years due to road expansion projects and pest-induced diseases. Emperor Jahangir, Akbar's son, is said to have planted four Chinar trees on a small island in Dal Lake and named it Char Chinar (Four Chinar Trees) – now a major tourist attraction. Over time, two trees disappeared due to old age and disease, until the government replaced them with transplanted mature trees in 2022.

Interestingly, Chinar trees are protected by the 1969 Jammu and Kashmir Specified Trees Preservation Act, which regulates the felling and export of Chinar trees, and even pruning requires official approval. Although the region lost its statehood in 2019, the law remains in effect. However, environmental activist Raja Muzaffar Bhat says that authorities often exploit loopholes in the law to fell Chinar trees.

"Under the guise of pruning, entire trees are being felled," he said, citing a recent suspected felling incident in the Anantnag district that sparked strong protests. "On the one hand, the government is geo-tagging trees, and on the other hand, it is felling them," he said. He added that while authorities have removed trees for urban projects, local residents have also been illegally felling them.

Chinar wood has durable hardwood, making it ideal for carving, furniture, and handicrafts. Locals also use them for firewood and making herbal medicines. Mr. Bhat said that government projects like geo-tagging are raising awareness. He added that Kashmiris have a deep affection for Chinar trees, viewing them as part of their heritage, and they now openly object to the felling or damaging of Chinar trees.

Last week, many people posted photos on X (formerly Twitter) of the allegedly felled trees in the Anantnag district, and opposition leaders demanded that the government launch an investigation and take action against the culprits. "The government should protect these trees in letter and spirit," Mr. Bhat said. "Because without Chinar trees, Kashmir doesn't feel like home."