Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Shipping Nitin Gadkari launched the Green Highways (Plantation, Transplantation, Beautification and Maintenance) Policy, 2015 at a function here today.
The aim of the policy is to promote the greening of highway corridors with the participation of the community, farmers, private sector, NGOs, and government institutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Gadkari said that one percent of the total project cost of all highways projects will be kept aside for the highway plantation and its maintenance.
He said that about Rs. 1000 crore per year will be available for plantation purpose. He also said that this policy will generate employment opportunities for about five lakh people from rural areas.
He added that there will be strong monitoring mechanism in place by using ISRO's Bhuvan and GAGAN satellite systems. Every planted tree will be counted and auditing will be done.
The agencies performing good will be awarded. He called for suggestions from people for smooth implementation of the policy. He also asked the state governments to start programmes on similar lines.
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Gadkari said that 1200 road side amenities will also be established.
He said that the vision of the policy is to provide dignified employment to local people and communities.
Over 1500 delegates from all over India participated in the conference.