Tumble of Shahdok Chinar

The fall of Shahdok Chinar may not be even a news for some, but for many including myself it is awful news. During trekking to Chaqa Rogh, and Noghoor Kuloom (located at the top of the same mountain), me and my friends had spent few moments under the cool shadow of the said Chinar. It is surprising that the owners of Shahdok eagerly take care even wild apples and every inch of the barren land of Shahdok, simply ignored that historic tree, most probably because, it was not generating any income. The one�s always showing concerns about the culture of Chitral and its important landmarks (even opposing Lawari tunnel) are taking good care of income generating possessions only. Shahdok Chinar�s contribution in the beauty of Chitral town was indubitable, it is ultimately down just because of ignorance of the owner�s of Shahdok, and this is irreversible loss. Through this letter I will request the lovers of nature to raise a Red Flag on the spot, as a symbol of �Loss�. Shahdok Chinar was certainly a very important landmark and looked a fairy creature. After de-rooting of historic Chumooti Chinar at jughoor by highway authorities, now we lost this master piece. Only two historic trees are left in Chitral town now, The Chinar in Jang Bazar mosque and the evergreen gigantic oak tree at Uchusht/Shiaqotek boarder.

As the work is in progress on Lawari tunnel, and extension of roads will soon follow as part of the project, and we may loose more historic sights in other parts of the district as well. To avoid such happenings, the district assembly could identify the important landmarks in Chitral and with small effort could easily preserve them. I don�t think that is a very big deal if not politicized.

Dr. Khalil Jughooru
Presently
Hamilton Canada