In a decision that has stirred disapproval within a segment of society, the administration of Amar Singh College, the second eldest educational institution in Kashmir, founded in 1913, has recently eradicated over 200 towering poplar trees from its premises. The college authorities have justified the removal of these trees on grounds of safety.
These arboreal giants, which had long been emblematic of the college’s character, constituted a grand verdant pathway leading to the venerable 114-year-old architectural masterpiece, characterized by Anglo-Indian design elements.
The felling of these iconic trees has incited a tide of dissent among students, alumni, and environmental activists alike. Former attendee Junaid Dar voiced his dismay, condemning the action as “a heartless massacre of nature.” In a poignant declaration, he mourned, “The callous obliteration of our scenic landscapes is inexcusable; spare these emerald treasures. Display some empathy, conserve these verdant passageways and pockets of wilderness that harbor our reminiscences.”
Legal practitioner Deeba Ashraf, an alumna of the college, echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the trees’ significance as an integral facet of Amar Singh College’s heritage. “These trees epitomized Amar Singh College. Any individual, be it filmmakers or visitors, would commence their exploration of the college by capturing the essence of these towering arbors,” Ashraf articulated, reflecting on the loss of a notable landmark.
Expressing apprehension over the removal of poplar trees, Hakim Sameer Hamdani, design overseer of INTACH Kashmir, remarked, “Initially, they erected a substantial brick wall when the original simple chain-link fence sufficed. Now, this calamity. One can only hope that accountability is established for this act of devastation.”
Principal Sheikh Aijaz Bashir defended the decision, citing safety hazards posed by aging trees that jeopardized lives and property. “These trees have matured over time and now pose a grave risk to life and property. Incidents have occurred,” Aijaz rationalized, justifying the felling of the trees.
He elaborated on the college’s ambitious renovation plans, aimed at improving visibility and enhancing the campus’s aesthetic appeal. “A transparent gate will be installed, rendering the heritage building visible. Additionally, a cutting-edge fountain will be erected,” Aijaz disclosed. He reassured that the removed trees have been replaced with conifers, planted in symmetrical rows by the Department of Social Forestry J&K during 2018-19. Aijaz disclosed that the project commenced in 2019 under the auspices of the Forest Department. “They had initiated the tender process for the removal of 234 trees within the campus. However, it encountered initial delays due to circumstances stemming from the revocation of Article 370 and subsequently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The necessity of the project was underscored by the 2014 flood situation. It’s crucial to note that not all trees were felled; only those lining the perimeter and the central avenue were affected. He assured that the campus’s lush greenery would be preserved. I assumed duties at this college last year, and the project resumed following another assessment conducted by the Forest Department,” he stated.
Spanning across 35 hectares, Amar Singh College had previously garnered acclaim for its endeavors in restoration. The institution was bestowed with the Award of Merit in the 2020 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation.