Why Kashmir administration want to cut tree to stop spread of corona virus??

This will look weird but yes, it is true Kashmir government want to cut 42,000 female ‘Russian’ poplar trees planted by government forestry department. Administration also issued a order for their general public to cut trees on their property in coming next six days failing which government will cut them down.

Why only Russian tree?

It’s original name is North American Cotton Tree and scientific name is Populus deltoides. It grow faster than the other variety of trees, so they are popular as local growers. To boost economy in Kashmir valley in 1982, World Bank-aided social forestry scheme introduced these poplar trees.

A study done by the Government Medical College, Srinagar reported that less than 20 % of Kashmir people are allergic to these poplar trees, this may cause severity in the COVID-19 affected people. Government has targeted only female poplar trees.

Adverse Effect On Environment

Environment will get drastically effected. Instant elimination of green coverage of Kashmir. Too much chances of soil erosion in river bank.