As Kashmir braces for a harsh winter, production and stocks of all essential items is picking up pace. Among these essentials, the traditional practice of making charcoal continues in the modern times.
Charcoal, known locally as “Czinne” is Kashmiri name of charcoal is an essential ingredient for the traditional Kashmiri firepot, known as the ‘Kangri‘ which is used by people to keep themselves warm. Kangri is a small earthen pot filled with burning charcoal and covered with wickerwork. It is a portable and effective source of heat that has been used for centuries to keep people warm during the long, cold winter months.
Even with the availability of latest heating methods, traditional methods are still popular among the locals due to the frequent electricity outages. The winter in Kashmir is harshest from December 21 to January 31, a period of locally known as “Chillai Kalan”, (Chillai Kalan is the 40 days period of winter in which the temperature goes very down.) during which temperatures fall drastically, often below freezing point.
Charcoal makers, who work primarily in the rural areas of Kashmir, are busy gathering wood and building kilns to produce charcoal. The process of charcoal making is labour-intensive and time consuming, and it is essential for many families in Kashmir.
“Charcoal is our lifeline during the winter,” says Mohammad Ramzan Sheikh, a charcoal maker in the village of Baramulla. “We start making charcoal in the fall and continue until the snow melts in the spring.” The demand for charcoal is so high that charcoal makers often sell out all their supply before the winter is over.
This year, with the expectation of a particularly harsh winter, charcoal makers are working even harder to meet the demand. “We are working day and night to make as much charcoal as we can,” said Ramzan. “We know that many people are counting on us to keep them warm this winter.”
Making of charcoal involves burning of fallen leaves and twigs of trees accumulated mostly by women. The charcoal is known as ‘Czinne’ locally. The process involves charring of the collected material by a thick stick and water to douse off the flames, till the charcoal is made. The charcoal is then loaded in big bags mostly for personal consumption and at times sold in urban areas in the valley. The charcoal making process picks up during the months of November and December in rural areas.
During the winter season in Kashmir, frequent power cuts render the electric heating appliances useless, and people only have “Kangri” to keep themselves warm. Kangri is ignited by adding charcoal which then gives warmth for hours.
Altaf Ahmad Lone, a labourer from the Boniyar area of the district Baramulla says, “We make large quantities of charcoal and sell it in the market to make some money,” and adds that in the winter season work opportunities are scarce due to the freezing cold weather. “So we make some money by selling the charcoal. We sometimes go from house to house to sell it,” he says
Despite its widespread use in day-to-day life, charcoal production poses significant health and environmental risks. Traditional methods of charcoal making, which involve burning wood in kilns or earthen mounds, often result in the release of harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide, methane, and particulate matter. These pollutants can cause a range of health problems.
Dr. Sheikh Ghulam Rasool, a former physician and environmental expert, says that while the environmental impact is immense, the health hazards are even more acute. “Charcoal making,” he asserts, “poses a greater threat to human health than it does to the environment. Its long-term effect become more pronounced when we utilise charcoal in Kangri.”
“Research conducted by experts has brought to light a concerning phenomenon known as ‘Kangri Cancer,’ primarily afflicting rural communities. While the prevalence of this ailment has shown signs of decline, its harmful effects on health remain a cause for concern. Apart from Kangri Cancer, charcoal use has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, as the heat generated by the burning charcoal increases the heart’s workload,” he adds.
During the harsh winter months, when doors and windows are kept tightly shut to conserve heat, oxygen levels naturally plummet. The introduction of carbon monoxide from burning charcoal further exacerbates this issue, posing a significant health risk. Charcoal making, an ancient practice rooted in tradition, has served as a reliable source of fuel for centuries. Its versatility extends to cooking, grilling, and even water purification. However, the environmental and health implications of charcoal production cannot be ignored.
“Charcoal making is deeply embedded in our culture and geography,” Dr. Ghulam Rasool explains. “For many, it remains the most affordable and practical heating solution, particularly in rural areas. While we cannot eliminate the use of Kangri, we must exercise greater caution and explore more sustainable alternatives.”
As a result of traditional factors and modern limitations, charcoal is likely to remain in demand for many years to come. In fact, the global charcoal market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2021 to 2026”. Dr Ghulam Rasool says that traditional practices have their significance and relevance but there is also a need to protect the environment.
The continued demand for charcoal in Kashmir reflects a complex interplay of cultural preferences, economic realities, and environmental considerations. While advancements in heating and cooking technologies have emerged, charcoal remains a deeply rooted and indispensable part of Kashmiri life. However, it is essential to use charcoal judiciously and with caution to avoid potential health risks.
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