IRC Code IRC:SP:103-2014: Guidelines on Tree Plantation along Rural Roads

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The Indian Roads Congress (IRC) introduced IRC:SP:103-2014, which provides comprehensive guidelines on tree plantation along rural roads. These guidelines aim to improve roadside vegetation, enhance ecological balance, and provide shade for travelers. The document outlines essential aspects of roadside plantation, species selection, planting methods, and maintenance practices.

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Scope of IRC:SP:103-2014

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The key objectives of this IRC Code include:

• Enhancing roadside aesthetics and environmental sustainability.
• Reducing soil erosion and preventing road deterioration.
• Providing shade and shelter along rural roads.
• Improving air quality and mitigating the effects of climate change.
• Encouraging community participation in tree plantation.

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Important Aspects of Tree Plantation along Rural Roads

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1. Site Selection and Right-of-Way Considerations

• Tree planting should be confined to the available Right-of-Way (RoW).
• No additional land should be acquired for plantation purposes.
• Trees should be planted in a single row along rural roads unless space allows multiple rows.

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2. Selection of Tree Species

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The selection of tree species is based on regional climate conditions, soil type, and local ecological requirements. The IRC Code classifies trees based on different climatic zones:

• Arid and Dry Regions (e.g., Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra)
  • Neem (Azadirachta indica)
  • Babool (Acacia nilotica)
  • Khejri (Prosopis cineraria)
• Temperate and Sub-Tropical Areas (e.g., Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab)
  • Deodar (Cedrus deodara)
  • Silver Oak (Grevillea robusta)
  • Walnut (Juglans regia)
• Indo-Gangetic Plains (e.g., Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal)
  • Mango (Mangifera indica)
  • Peepal (Ficus religiosa)
  • Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo)
• Coastal Areas (e.g., Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa)
  • Coconut (Cocos nucifera)
  • Casuarina (Casuarina equisetifolia)
  • Mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni)

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3. Plantation Techniques and Spacing Guidelines

• Spacing Between Trees: 4m to 6m between individual plants.
• Distance from the Road Edge: Minimum 0.5m from the embankment toe.
• Height of Saplings: Minimum 1.2m at the time of planting.
• Soil Preparation: Digging of 60cm x 60cm x 60cm pits for saplings.

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4. Bio-Engineering Measures for Slope Protection

• Grasses and shrubs should be planted on embankments to prevent erosion.
• Mounds and drainage systems should be established in waterlogged areas.
• Terracing techniques should be used in hilly regions for slope stabilization.

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5. Maintenance and Protection of Roadside Trees

To ensure the long-term success of tree plantations, IRC:SP:103-2014 recommends:

• Regular watering (450 to 650 liters per tree per year).
• Weeding and hoeing to prevent competing vegetation.
• Casualty replacement (20% replanting in the second year, 10% in the fourth year).
• Protection from grazing animals using brushwood fencing.

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Community Participation and Implementation Strategy

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• Local communities and Panchayati Raj institutions should be involved in tree maintenance.
• Employment opportunities under schemes like MGNREGA can be utilized for plantation upkeep.
• Government agencies should coordinate with the Forest and Agriculture Departments to ensure sustainable plantation efforts.

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Conclusion:

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A Green Future for Rural RoadsThe IRC Code IRC:SP:103-2014 serves as a crucial guideline for integrating tree plantation with rural road development. By following these recommendations, India can achieve eco-friendly and sustainable rural infrastructure, benefiting both the environment and the communities that depend on these roads.

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