500 deodar saplings planted in Dignibal Forest Block in Srinagar

Srinagar, Apr 26: In a remarkable example of community-driven environmental responsibility, residents organised a mega plantation drive at the Dignibal Forest Block under the Estate Range of the Urban Forestry Division Srinagar, where 500 deodar saplings were planted in a single day.

A local news gathering agency KNO reported the initiative stood out for its simplicity and purpose, as it was carried out entirely by local citizens without the backing of any NGO or formal organisation.

The effort reflected a growing public awareness about the need for collective action in the face of environmental challenges. The drive was led by community members, including Irfan Mir of SP School Srinagar, FaizanArif, an independent climate analyst, DrTasneema, DrTajamul, DrRehana, Abrar, ZahirMajeed, Showkat Hamid, Zubair, and several other volunteers who came together with the shared objective of contributing to afforestation and ecological restoration in the region.

Their effort was supported and facilitated by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department, which provided Deodar saplings along with technical guidance and on-ground assistance. The plantation drive was conducted with the support of Irfan Rasool Wani, Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir, Sheikh Altaf Ahmad, Range Officer Estate Range Srinagar, Jeelani, Block Forest Officer Dignibal, and field staff who ensured the smooth execution of the activity.

Kashmir’s environment has been witnessing visible shifts in recent years, with irregular precipitation patterns, warmer winters, and an increase in extreme weather events becoming more noticeable.

These climatic changes, coupled with pressures from urbanisation and the felling of trees, have raised concerns among environmental observers and local communities alike.

Participants expressed hope that the initiative would inspire similar efforts across other parts of Kashmir, creating a ripple effect of community-led environmental action.