Centre's recent decision to green the National Highway 17 and sanction a huge budget for the same is a welcome move. But, what is amusing is that the contract for the same is signed by GIDC, which is instrumental for undertaking construction projects. Keeping the Forest Development Corporation out, which was better suited for the job, is a big surprise.
Planting trees along the highway without maintenance and availability of water facility cannot be ignored. Plants that are grown along highways should not attract cattle for either foliage, flowers etc thereby endangering the life of pedestrians and motorists. Care should be taken not to grow plants spreading pollen dust as they are considered health hazards. Flowering plants are also found to be fragile and drivers, commuters can be hurt by falling branches.
It will be of great interest to know whether GIDC will be able to justice to the job that is entrusted to it.
NELSON LOPES, Chinchinim
