A historic Chinar tree at Chattergam in Budgam district, estimated to be around 650 years old, is being protected through measures aimed at preserving its health and root system.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Chinar at Chattergam is estimated to be around 650 years old.
The Jammu and Kashmir government describes it as among Asia’s oldest Chinars.
* Some old and dried branches have fallen naturally. * The remaining portion of the tree continues to remain green
An iron fence has been installed around its critical root zone.
The protection aims to prevent soil compaction, root suffocation and vehicular movement near the roots.
The Jammu and Kashmir government informed the Legislative Assembly that the Chinar is considered among the oldest of its species in Asia. Some of its older and dried branches have fallen naturally, while the remaining portion of the tree continues to remain green.
Protection measures have been initiated around the tree’s critical root zone. An iron fence has been installed to help prevent soil compaction and root suffocation and to restrict vehicular movement close to the roots.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The centuries-old Chinar is an important part of Kashmir’s natural and cultural heritage. Its protection helps preserve an exceptionally old tree for future generations.
The government has also stated that Chinar trees are subject to protection rules, under which cutting even a branch requires prior permission from the local administration. Activities such as damaging the bark or roots and fixing nails or signboards to the trees are also prohibited.
The Chattergam Chinar remains an important example of Kashmir’s natural and cultural heritage, with ongoing protection measures aimed at preserving the centuries-old tree.
