Kupwara, Kashmir, July 2025
In the remote forested slopes of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, a quiet green revolution is taking root, led by a man known locally and affectionately as the “Chinar Man of Kashmir.”
Abdul Ahad Khan, a 62-year-old retired forest worker from the beautiful village of Nagri Malpora, has become a symbol of environmental resilience and local activism. Over the last two decades, he has planted and nurtured more than 12,000 Chinar trees, many of which now stand tall across Kupwara’s barren
hillsides, roadsides, and schoolyards.
“I don’t want the next generation to grow up in a Kashmir without Chinars,” Khan says as he gently touches the trunk of a young tree he planted five years ago. “These trees are not just part of our landscape; they are part of our soul.”
A Legacy Rooted in Green
Chinar trees (Platanus orientalis), known for their vibrant autumn leaves and cultural significance, have long been a symbol of Kashmir’s beauty and identity. However, rampant deforestation, urbanization, and climate change have threatened their survival.
Khan, who spent most of his life as a daily worker with the Forest Department, watched the ecological imbalance unfold around him. “I used to see lush hills slowly turning dry and lifeless. That broke something inside me,” he recalls.
After retiring from the service, Khan made it his mission to restore Kupwara’s green cover, starting with a few saplings and a lot of hope. Without any institutional support, he began collecting Chinar seeds, preparing nurseries in his backyard, and planting them during the monsoon season.
Inspiring a Movement
Today, Khan’s efforts have expanded far beyond personal planting. He regularly visits schools, colleges, and panchayat meetings to raise awareness about forest preservation and native tree species. His story has inspired many
local youths and students to get involved in seasonal planting drives.
In recognition of his work, the District Forest Department recently teamed up with Khan to create a “People’s Chinar Park” on the outskirts of Kupwara town. The project, set to launch later this year, will include over 500 saplings planted by local volunteers under Khan’s guidance.
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“He’s a living example of what one person can do when he truly believes in a cause,” said Aijaz Ahmed one of his colleagues.“His commitment is unmatched; we’re proud to support his vision.”
More Than Just Trees
For Khan, the Chinar is more than just a tree; it’s a symbol of Kashmir’s resilience. “Chinars live for centuries,” he says with a smile. “I may not be around to see all of them grow tall, but I know they will stand long after I’m gone.”
As Kashmir faces increasing challenges from climate change, water shortages, and shrinking green areas, Abdul Ahad Khan’s work offers a ray of hope and a reminder that sometimes, the most powerful revolutions begin with planting a single seed.