Srinagar, Mar 9 : Almond trees have started blooming at the historic Badamwari Garden, signalling the arrival of spring in Kashmir, officials said on Monday.
Director Floriculture Mathora Masoom told the Kashmir News Service (KNS), that the department has made extensive preparations to welcome visitors as the garden begins to witness the seasonal bloom.
“Whenever spring begins in Kashmir, the first thing that comes to mind is Badamwari. The almond blossom here becomes the first indication that spring has arrived,” she said.
Masoom said the department has carried out plantation work, developed pathways and installed decorative planters across the garden to improve the visitor experience.
She said a variety of seasonal flowers have also been planted to add colour to the garden during the spring season. Visitors can see flowers such as Daffodils, Pansies and Tulips along with the blooming almond trees.
The director said the department is preparing to host the annual spring festival, popularly known as the Badamwari festival, which is likely to be inaugurated by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the coming days.
According to the official, around 300 new almond trees have been planted in the garden to fill gaps where trees were missing. She added that fountains and water features inside the park have also been restored to enhance its appearance.
Masoom said the Floriculture Department has also collaborated with the Jammu and Kashmir Handicrafts Department to set up stalls where artisans will display traditional handicraft products during the festival.
She said registered plant growers will also be provided stalls to sell seedlings, planters and potted plants so that visitors can take home plants along with enjoying the spring bloom.(KNS).
