Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon Tuesdaysaid Chinar is pride and identity of Kashmir and stressed on increasing green cover of the Valley while inaugurating Chinar plantation drive in Srinagar.The Divisional Commissioner planted Chinar tree saplings in Pologround Park in Srinagar. He was accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, Director School Education, Dr Shah Faesal and Director Floriculture, besides other officers.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Samoon said that with the cooperation of various departments as many as 12,000 saplings of the Chinar tree has been earmarked this year for plantation across the Valley.The Div Com was informed that the Floriculture department is aiming to distribute 1500 Chinar saplings this year in Srinagar, out of which 300 saplings have already been planted and distributed among the government and private organizations besides among locals for free of cost as well.
According to the ongoing survey by the Floriculture Department, about 8,000 Chinars have been indentified, so far, in the Srinagar district, while the department is reviving September 2014 flood-affected saplings of the tree.During the plantation drive, the Div Com said Chinar plantation drive will be taken to Ladakh region as well, once the road to the region opens for vehicular traffic. He said the plantation drive needs to be taken forward without any letup to arrest the climate change. He said if the drive continues for next 5-10 years the green cover of the valley will increase tremendously and help in restoring ecological balance.The Divisional Commissioner directed the officials of Floriculture department to plant Pine trees along the Airport road, bye-passes and highways in the district instead of Cupressus plants which he said will affect the environment positively.
He also directed the officials of the department to plant Walnut trees and different saplings of fruit trees and flowerings in public gardens to add to their beautification.Meanwhile, the Divisional Commissioner also inaugurated Chinar plantation drive at Budgam by planting a Chinar Tree at Behisht Zehra Park.The District Development Commissioner Budgam, Director Floriculture, Additional Deputy Commissioner besides officers of civil and police administration were present on the occasion.The Divisional Commissioner was informed that during current year about 860 chinar trees will be planted in the district.