The Uttarakhand Bamboo and Fiber Development Board has submitted an important proposal to NHAI to prevent soil erosion and reduce vehicle noise on the Uttarakhand Expressway. The UBFD Board has submitted a proposal to NHAI to plant bamboo along expressways in Uttarakhand. This will help prevent soil erosion during rains and reduce vehicle noise. It will also help purify the environment.
The Board has suggested planting local bamboo species along all expressways. Soil erosion along expressways and highways causes road sinking. This also leads to road accidents, which can be reduced by planting bamboo. Bamboo plants develop a strong grip on the soil within two to three years and prevent soil erosion even during heavy rains.
Landslides are a major problem in hilly states, causing loss of life and property. Planting bamboo can significantly reduce the damage caused by landslides. It will also prevent fertile soil from being washed away.
Dense bamboo thickets provide a favorable environment for many animals and birds. Furthermore, bamboo is considered a favorite food for elephants and other animals, promoting wildlife. Bamboo plants provide 35 percent more oxygen than other plants. They regenerate rapidly even after being cut. Once planted, they can be harvested for fifty to a hundred years. Wild animals do not harm bamboo plants and do not require any special care.
Meenakshi Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Uttarakhand Bamboo and Fibre Development Council, stated that due to the benefits of bamboo, it is called green gold. If approval is obtained for planting bamboo along the expressway, it will not only help prevent soil erosion but also provide employment to local people.