Plastic tree guards in Visakhapatnam draw criticism
After Cyclone Hudhud, a large number of trees were destroyed
By : DC Correspondent
Update: 2014-11-22 04:06 GMT
Visakhapatnam: In an attempt to regain Visakhapatnam’s lost green glory, the district administration has further harmed the environment and created an eyesore by installing several plastic drums as tree guards.
After Cyclone Hudhud, a large number of trees were destroyed. Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu recently launched a massive plantation programme to rejuvenate the city’s green cover.
According to Vizag Urban Development Authority officials, an estimated 54,000 tree guards were required for protecting saplings planted and they managed to strike a deal with various organisations to provide 45,000 tree guards.
While environmentalists have been suggesting banning plastic in urban areas, arrangements are being made to install 45,000 plastic guards. Now, most of the city areas are witnessing the plastic drums being used as tree guards.
“We are using the plastic drums right now. The government is planning to replace them subsequently with cement or iron tree guards, though they are expensive,” said G.C. Kishore, VUDA secretary.
Eco-friendly bamboo tree guards are available in the city and can also be arranged for through government agencies which can train tribal farmers of agency areas, where abundant bamboo is available.
“Bamboo or tree debris can be used. They also allow sufficient sunlight facilitating plant growth,” said Prof. D.E. Babu from the Andhra University. Recent studies conducted in Sarguja district of Chhattisgarh and Gumla of Jharkhand reveal that brick tree guards are costlier than bamboo.
The cost of cement guard is nearly three times that of bamboo tree guard. The material factor in the labour material ratio for roadside plantation is on the higher side. In cement or brick tree guards the plants do not get sufficient sunlight, therefore there is poor photosynthesis in the plant, resulting in poor survival and growth of plants, according to the study. Engaging MGNREGA workers and others can make them cost-effective.
“Bamboo or tree debris can be used for making guards and they allow sufficient sunlight required therefore, growth of plants with eco-friendly tree guards is better,” said Prof. D.E. Babu from Andhra University.