Srinagar, July 11: Waking up to the declining number of Chinar trees, the Jammu and Kashmir government has initiated a project to preserve these heritage trees by implementing QR coding.
Once abundant, with around 40,000 Chinars in Kashmir, their numbers have now dwindled to approximately 25,000.
“The next step involves assigning quick response (QR) codes to Chinars across Jammu and Kashmir. Each QR code, displayed on an engraved plate, will digitally store comprehensive information about the specific Chinar tree, including its location, health, age, and other relevant characteristics,” the official added.
Chinar trees have been a silent witness to Kashmir’s history for centuries. It is widely believed that the Chinar was introduced to Kashmir from Persia, with the Mughals later planting them extensively across the valley. These majestic trees provide much-needed shade and shelter in parks and gardens, offering respite from heat and rain. The cool breeze under a Chinar’s canopy on a summer day is particularly refreshing.
Apart from their aesthetic appeal, Chinar trees also offer various medicinal benefits, and their wood is utilized in crafting furniture and art products. The name “Chinar” originates from a Persian word meaning “what a fire,” a reference to the tree’s radiant red leaves in autumn, making it appear as if the tree is aflame.
Kashmir is home to the world’s oldest Chinar tree, which is 647 years old, located in the village of Chattergam in Budgam district. This ancient tree is believed to have been planted in 1374 A.D. by Islamsyic mystic Syed Abdul Qasim Hamadani, who accompanied Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani from Iran to Kashmir.
