This year we are distributing more than 10 thousand Chinar saplings; Requests people to play their role in Chinar conservation: Dir Floriculture Farooq Ahmad Rather SRINAGAR: The Department of Floriculture, under the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, kickstarted a mega Chinar plantation drive at Nishat Garden here on Wednesday. The Director Floriculture Farooq Ahmad Rather overseeing the drive spoke to the crowd about the importance of preserving the heritage Chinar trees, with an utmost sense of purpose and determination. The Director, Farooq Ahamad Rather said that every year on March 15, the Department of Floriculture Gardens and Parks Directorate of Floriculture Kashmir and other prominent associations organize a Chinar plantation drive with the main aim of making people aware of the heritage Chinar tree. “As we know, Chinar is a royal and heritage tree and a part of our ancestry. To prevent its depletion, it is an effort from the government to plant more Chinars in an adequate number every year. This year, we are also distributing more than 10 thousand Chinar saplings to different government offices, schools, colleges, civil services, defense and other departments. On this day, we also spread awareness among all and request people to play their role in Chinar conservation.” As far as Nishat Garden is concerned, the Director said that it is a pleasant Chinar avenue and consists of more than 200 big Chinar trees, which is the main attraction for visitors during the autumn season. “This year, we are planting 60 more saplings here in the garden, which will augment the number and make it more beautiful.” Rather added, “If a Chinar tree has become dry and is about to fall, in this extreme condition, this tree is cut down with proper permission to save lives and property from getting damaged.” (GNS)