Tangmarg, Aug 16 (KNS): A large number of fully grown trees planted by locals over a decade ago were allegedly uprooted and buried using a JCB machine in the Baba Reshi–Namilnar area of Tangmarg on Sunday, triggering protests and allegations of a major forest law violation.

 

Residents told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that the trees stood on a plot leased out by the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board a few months ago for a 30-year term. They, however, maintained that the lease did not authorise the lessee to destroy the green cover.

 

“They brought a JCB and started uprooting the trees in large numbers. Several were pushed into trenches and buried. We watched helplessly,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a local resident. “We had planted these trees with our own hands years ago. They were like green gold for us.”

 

Locals have demanded immediate action against those responsible and urged both the Forest Department and the police to intervene. They also questioned how such large-scale destruction could take place when authorities usually act swiftly even over minor encroachments or tree felling.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

The incident has raised concerns over protection of mature plantations in the Valley, particularly on leased land, and the efficacy of enforcement mechanisms in the region. Locals have called for a thorough probe to establish who ordered the demolition and on whose authority.

 

Tangmarg Ranger Javed Ahmad told news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) over the phone that the Forest Department has taken cognisance of the matter. “We are investigating. Action will be taken at the earliest against those found responsible, as per law,” he said.

 

A senior police officer, however, said no communication has been received from the Forest Department yet. “Once we get information, action will follow,” the officer added.

 

The district administration of Baramulla, when KNS contacted, assured that the matter would be taken seriously and action as per law would be initiated. (KNS)