The District Floriculture Office has refuted reports of illegal tree felling in Ranibagh, Anantnag, stating that only authorized pruning of dried and hazardous branches of old Chinar trees was conducted to ensure public safety.
In an official statement, the department said that the process followed due authorization and was carried out transparently.
The pruning was conducted through an open auction on January 9, 2025, under the supervision of the District Floriculture Officer. Authorities emphasized that all procedures adhered to existing regulations.
The statement urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information and to seek clarification from official sources before sharing claims about alleged illegal activities.
This clarification comes amid growing concerns over environmental conservation and tree preservation in Kashmir, where Chinar trees hold historical and cultural significance.