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Why Are Some Road Construction Companies Not Planting Trees and What Actions Are Being Taken?

Understanding the Green Highways Policy and Its Enforcement

In recent years, the Green Highways Policy - 2015 has been a significant initiative by the Government of India to ensure that road construction projects contribute to environmental sustainability. This policy mandates the planting of trees along National Highways (NHs) to enhance green cover and improve the ecological balance. However, some companies involved in road construction are reportedly not complying with this requirement. Let's dive into the details of the policy and the actions being taken against these non-compliant companies.

What Is the Green Highways Policy - 2015?

The Green Highways Policy was introduced to ensure that road development projects include tree plantation as part of their execution. The policy aims to:

• Promote Environmental Sustainability: By planting trees along NHs, the policy helps in reducing carbon footprints and enhancing biodiversity.
• Enhance Aesthetic Value: Trees along highways improve the visual appeal and contribute to a pleasant driving experience.
• Improve Air Quality: Tree plantations help in purifying the air and reducing pollution levels.

How Is the Policy Implemented?

Since the introduction of the Green Highways Policy in 2015, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has been actively involved in planting trees. As of August 2024:

• Total Trees Planted: 402.28 lakh saplings have been planted across the country.
• Key States:
  • Madhya Pradesh: 35.04 lakh saplings
  • Bihar: 10.44 lakh saplings

These plantations are carried out according to the Annual Plantation Action Plan and in compliance with IRC:SP:21-2009 guidelines.

What Issues Have Arisen?

While the policy has been largely successful, some challenges remain:

• Compliance Issues: Certain road construction companies have not adhered to the policy's requirements for tree planting.
• No Significant Issues Reported: The government has not reported any major issues with the implementation process itself.

Actions Against Non-Compliant Companies

The government takes non-compliance seriously and follows specific actions against companies that fail to plant trees as required:

• Contractual Penalties: Actions are taken as per the terms of the contract agreements with the companies. This can include financial penalties or other corrective measures.
• Monitoring and Enforcement: Continuous monitoring ensures that companies meet their obligations. If a company fails to comply, enforcement actions are initiated.

Future Plans for Tree Plantations

The government is committed to increasing tree plantations along NHs:

• Ongoing Efforts: Plantations are carried out annually, with future plans including more comprehensive plantation drives.
• Involvement of NGOs: While no current plans involve NGOs, future strategies may include partnerships to improve sapling survival rates.

Conclusion

The Green Highways Policy - 2015 is a crucial step towards environmental sustainability in road construction. While some companies have faced challenges in compliance, the government is actively taking action to ensure adherence to the policy. With continued efforts and improvements, the initiative aims to create greener and more sustainable highways across the country.