Tree plantation drive by NH17 The Central Govt has recently sanctioned huge budget for the purpose and the idea of beautification is attractive. It is amusing that the contract is signed by GIDC of Goa, which is instrumental for undertaking other constructive projects, The exclusion of Forest Development Corporation, which is better suited is a big surprise. Plantation of trees without maintenance and availability of water facility for their survival cannot be ignored or depend upon rainy season. The plants should not attract cattle for either foliage, flowers etc endangering the life of travelers. Earlier plants of social forestry inimical to animals were the choice, These plants spreading of pollen dust were ordered inadvisable as health hazards for asthmatic patients. Later flowering social forestry plants were found to be too fragile and drivers and commuters were hurt and maimed by falling branches, The spreading branches caused constant short circuits too , as Electric Dept were not sincere in their work before monsoons. The lightening of the streets lamps is absorbed, hindered by the foliage spreading over the NH17 over large tracts .The planted trees between road dividers, shrubs should not block drivers clear vision to prevent accidents NGO have demanded of clearing NH17 obstructions, but the action taken is nothing more than eye wash and in patches.
The acquired area for NH17 is not cleared along the route for the last 30 years. that is a nuisance on all parameters .Without clear pedestrian lanes, tree plantation will not make sense. First ,all the acquired trees ,plants in the area should be cleared, before planting drive is undertaken The survival of planted trees must be a priority and not to swallow the grants to permit the plants to wither and die The priority of beautification makes no sense and must precede widening, removing of bends and dangerous spots, clearing road sides of bushes and shrubs, potholes, road maintenance by asphalting and constant digging for laying various service must be controlled and monitored, signs boards need to be updated Nelson Lopes Chinchinim
