In defence of nature

I am writing this article in response to the write-up published by Mr. Nisar Sultan Lone in the April 5, 2024 edition of Greater Kashmir. As more than 200 poplar trees were axed to wipe out the breath-taking canopy of poplar trees at the entrance of historical Amar Singh College Srinagar, videos and snaps circulated across almost all social media networks brutally criticising the decision of the authorities.

Students and locals protested and expressed their concerns as well.

Mr. Lone’s article attempts at providing a rationale for the removal of the trees by largely relying on his personal anecdotes and experiences rather than deep objective analysis and factual evidence. Having said that, personal anecdotes can add depth to an argument but they ought not to be the primary basis for framing conclusions especially on matters of nature and environmental conservation.

The article fails to provide a more balanced assessment of the situation and regards the legitimate and rational concerns raised by Dr. Muzzafar Bhat, students, and locals as mere emotional reactions.

Moreover, the comparison drawn between the axed popular trees and the uprooted flora in a personal garden is not only illogical but also irrelevant to the broader discussion about environmental conservation and urban development.

Furthermore, the article snubs eco-friendly solutions to the problem such as implementing measures to lessen the risks and problems posed by ageing trees or exploring alternatives for tree relocation. This narrow-minded perspective adores and prioritises short-term convenience over long-term sustainability.

This reckless axing of the beautiful canopy of the historical and celebrated institution has raised numerous questions and quires that need to be addressed. Why didn’t the authorities consider exploring alternative solutions to mitigate the risks associated with ageing trees such as regular maintenance, pruning or tree relocation? Are we left with no sustainable solutions that could minimise harm to the mother nature? It is disheartening to know that the local community was not engaged by the administration in the decision making process about the issue.

The incidents of tree related mishaps have been happening since time immemorial and would continue to happen in future as well. While such incidents are regrettable yet they don’t justify the reckless destruction of natural heritage and resources that are pivotal to human existence.

Besides ecological and environmental repercussions, there are deeper philosophical implications of such actions as well. Philosophically, the article reflects more or less a utilitarian understanding that prioritises human convenience and progress at the expense of ecological integrity.

To my mind, it disregards the intrinsic value of mother nature and reduces trees to mere commodities whose importance is measured on the basis of their utility to humans. The article along with the very act of administration reflect anthropocentric worldview that subtracts from humans the care and compassion for nature.

Tailpiece: Let’s introspect and develop a significant amount of compassion for nature and tirelessly work to protect, preserve and safeguard it. It is no rocket science to understand that in safeguarding the mother nature we safeguard our own future and the rich legacy that we leave for the generations to come.

By Tasaduq Maqbool Bhat, Nursing Graduate, presently a civil service aspirant.