2,400 trees to make way for expansion of 2 bypasses

PANAJI
In a major decision, the State Tree Authority (STA) has granted permission for felling of nearly 2,400 trees to facilitate the widening and expansion of the Margao Bypass and the Western Bypass along the National Highway (NH-66), paving the way for major road infrastructure upgrades in South Goa to be undertaken by the Public Works Department (PWD).

The approval has been accorded for the felling of 477 trees from PWD-acquired land for widening of the road from the end of approaches at Cortalim up to the Margao Bypass and Verna. In a separate proposal, the authority has also considered permission to fell 1,918 trees for widening NH-66 to four/six lanes from the end of the Margao Western Bypass at Navelim up to Uskini Bandh, Cuncolim. Together, the two projects account for nearly 2,395 trees.

The proposals were placed before the authority by the Executive Engineer, Works Division XIV (NH), Fatorda, who justified the requirement for tree felling as essential to ensure road widening and smooth execution of the bypass projects. It was stated that land along the median and road sides would be utilised for compensatory plantation.

While laying down series of stringent conditions aimed at minimising environmental impact, STA has directed the joint committee comprising the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB), the Forest Department and the PWD to mandatorily inspect the project sites and recommend the number of trees that can be translocated from among those proposed to be felled. As per recommendations already on record, at least 10 per cent of the trees are to be considered for translocation, subject to feasibility and species.

The project proponent has also been directed to undertake compensatory afforestation of three trees for every tree felled. This plantation will be in addition to the greenery to be developed by the PWD along medians and road sides as per mandatory National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) guidelines. The species selected for plantation will be only indigenous mixed tree species, finalised in consultation with the Forest Department and the GSBB, based on site suitability.

To ensure accountability, the authority has instructed that a geo-tagged record of all trees planted in lieu of those felled must be maintained for monitoring by the government. The project proponent will also have to pay a security deposit and bear the cost of maintaining the saplings for a period of five years from the year of planting.

Further, special care has been mandated during tree-felling operations to ensure that no wildlife is harmed or injured, including protection of nests and young ones.