1000 Deodar trees to be cut in Jageshwar, why these trees are crucial for environment

In the tranquil regions of Nainital and Almora, a contentious plan to cut down approximately 1000 Deodar (cedar) trees for road expansion has sparked concern among environmentalists. The Public Works Department, responsible for the project, has begun marking the trees slated for removal.

The cedar, or Deodar, is revered as the “wood of the gods” in the Himalayas of Uttarakhand. More than mere vegetation, these trees are a cornerstone of the state’s cultural and ecological heritage. Their towering stature, aromatic scent, and robust timber have long commanded respect. Symbolizing immortality and spiritual strength, the evergreen Deodar is closely associated with Lord Shiva. Its wood, deemed holy, plays a vital role in religious practices.

1000 Deodar trees to be cut in Jageshwar

The state government’s ambitious ‘Manas Khand Mandir Mala Mission’ seeks to widen the road leading to the temple, enhancing access for devotees. However, this proposed development has sparked a fervent outcry from villagers, as it necessitates the felling of approximately 1,000 Deodar (sacred cedar) trees.

The Public Works Department (PWD), in collaboration with the forest department, has conducted a joint survey, revealing that the road expansion from Artola to Jageshwar over a three-kilometre stretch would require the removal of these trees to construct a two-lane road.

PWD superintendent engineer Almora Diwakaran Hyanki stated, “We need to cut the trees and acquire the land of villagers to widen this road but there is no consensus between authorities and the locals.”

The Deodar trees, revered by the local community and situated in what is known as Daruk forest or Daruk Van, are not just trees but are venerated as embodiments of divine figures such as Shiva-Parvati, Ganesha, and the Pandavas.

Ancient Deodar trees significance

Mukesh Chandra Bhatt from Dham has shared a video highlighting the significance of ancient Deodar trees, which have stood for hundreds of years.

In a Video, he said, "On the main road, there are small temples that we hold in high regard, considering them to be very ancient. In time, our main Jagishwar Dham will be constructed, envisioned to be developed as a Pachay Dham."

He added, "We are in the process of preparing for its development as a Pachay Dham. Meanwhile, the Deodar trees, which are the main identity of this place, are linked to the name of Jageshwar, derived from Nageshwar Daruka. ‘Daruka’ signifies God in Sanskrit.”

“As you can observe, the four Deodar forests have been marked with red ink, with about 1000 trees numbered and identified. These trees are not just ancient; they are a legacy. They are akin to half-trees, with two halves, and such trees are scarce in our region. Initially, there are few trees like these in Deodar, then there are single trees. These trees are ancient and represent a heritage for us, considered to be an ancient heritage, no less significant than a heritage. They embody half Shiva and half Parvati.”

Mukesh Chandra Bhatt

Local opposition challenges development plans

The #SaveJageshwar campaign was started on social media to protest the road widening project, is gaining momentum. Leaders of Jageshwar Dham, along with local clergy and residents, have united in vocal opposition to the felling of 1000 cedar trees for the roadway’s expansion.

The local opposition has led to the submission of memorandums to authorities and meetings with Kumaon commissioner Deepak Rawat, who has called for a detailed investigation.

Community members and business owners convened on Monday, declaring the trees—revered as manifestations of Shiva-Parvati, Ganesh, and the Pandavas—off-limits to the axe. A memorandum was submitted to SDM NS Naganyal, and Uttarakhand Lok Vahini has voiced its strong opposition.

Jageshwar, included in the 16 mythological temples of the Kumaon division to be developed under the state’s mission, stands at a crossroads. The local protests against the proposed tree felling, driven by the belief that these trees are deities, reflect a community’s struggle to protect its sacred grove amidst the push for modernization.

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