All Kashmir Wood Supply Union Wednesday staged protest against the government for cutting down of Russian poplar trees in the state.The KWSU members assembled at Srinagar’s press enclave and raised slogans against them. They were demanding not to chop the Russian poplar trees.The protestors told KNS correspondent that thousands across state are affiliated with wood business and if the government will cut down these trees, they will become jobless.Ghulam Nabi Sheikh, Union president of the association said, “It is on record that no one has been died till date with these trees. If government is really concerned about the health of citizens then they should immediately impose ban on liquor and cigarettes.”
He said that let the government cut down the branches of poplar trees every year to de crease the pollen creation instead of cutting down the trees.“It was government who brought the Russian poplar seed here, now when our businesses rely on it, this government is cutting down these trees,” he said.The protesters later appealed state administration to review the orders for the wel-being of the people affiliated with wood business.Meanwhile, the protesters later dispersed peacefully. (KNS)