Guidelines for Green

Highways Project
FOR PLANTATION, TRANSPLANTATION, BEAUTIFICATION & MAINTENANCE
ACTIVITES ALONG NATIONAL HIGHWAYS

National Green Highways Mission - NHAI

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 3
Objectives ............................................................................................................................................................... 4
1. Integrated Green Corridor Development and Management for New Highways Project ............................ 5
1.1 Planning ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
1.2 Implementation ........................................................................................................................................... 6
1.3 Monitoring ................................................................................................................................................... 6
2. Green Corridor development on existing national highway network.......................................................... 6
2.1 For NH projects having Plantation in its Scope of Work of Concession Agreement ..................................... 7
2.2 For NH projects in which Plantation is not in Scope of Work of Concession Agreement ............................. 7
3. Empanelment/Registration of Plantation Agencies/ Cooperatives/ NGOs/ SHGs/ JFMCs/ Watershed
committees etc ...................................................................................................................................................... 7
4. Implementation of Plantation, Transplantation, Beautification and maintenance activities ................... 10
4.1 Based on plantation SoR of MoRD for Roadside Plantation ....................................................................... 10
4.2 Swiss Challenge Proposal ............................................................................................................................ 11
4.3 For Large project based on RFQ-RFP .......................................................................................................... 11
4.4 Plantation through People's Participation .................................................................................................. 11
5. Quality Assurance Mechanism ............................................................................................................... 12
5.1 Mapping plantations through GIS based Application ............................................................................... 12
5.2 Monitoring by respective PIU/RO ............................................................................................................. 12
6 Green Corridor Planning Methodology .................................................................................................. 13
6.1 Selection of Tree/Shrub species - Plantation Species Matrix ................................................................... 13
6.2 Plantation Technique for Green Corridor Development .......................................................................... 14
7 Forward Linkages ......................................................................................................................................... 19
7.1 Institutional arrangements for buy back of sustainable harvest ............................................................. 19
7.2 Registering Carbon Sequestration Benefits under Clean Development Mechanism .............................. 19
7.3 Convergence of Federal Schemes .............................................................................................................. 19
7.4 Usufruct rights for Rural Communities...................................................................................................... 19
8 Miscellaneous .............................................................................................................................................. 20
8.5 Performance Audit ............................................................................................................................. 20
8.6 Awards to Plantation Agencies .......................................................................................................... 20
Annexure-I ............................................................................................................................................................ 21
ANNXURE II .......................................................................................................................................................... 22
ANNEXURE III .................................................................................................................................................... 25
 GUIDELINES FOR GREEN HIGHWAYS PROJECT
(PLANTATION, TRANSPLANTATION, BEAUTIFICATION &
MAINTENANCE)
INTRODUCTION
Highways are acknowledged as the growth engine of economic development. Interstate
road infrastructure facilitates trade, promotes tourism and bridges the geographical divide
amongst cities. Many a times this development comes at the cost of disturbance to
ecological balance. Clearance of forest and tree felling activities are inevitable consequences
of highway development. Although to counter these losses Highway projects are bundled
with median and avenue plantations but they are seldom equivalent to the natural
ecosystem existing before the development.

The situation becomes critical with incessant movement of vehicles on these roads
contributing further in release of Green house gases and other suspended particulate
matters. High level of Green house gases and extended dust particles in air poses an
imminent health threat for the commuters and also endangers the biodiversity of the
region. Under such circumstances it is important to take proactive measure for pollution
containment on highways.

Green corridor works as vegetation buffer around the pollution source and helps in sorption
of GHG gases and collection of dust particles. It also reduces noise pollution and provides
much needed shade on glairing hot roads during summer. Plantation arrest soil erosion at
the embankment slopes prevents glare from the headlight of incoming vehicles and
moderates the effect of wind and incoming radiation.

Realizing the importance of green corridors in National Highway development, Ministry of

Road, Transport and Highways has unveiled Green Highways (Plantation, Transplantation,
Beautification & Maintenance) Policy - 2015 with the vision "to develop eco friendly
National Highways with participation of the community, farmers, NGOs, private sector,
institutions, government agencies and the Forest Department for economic growth and
development in a sustainable manner."

MoRTH has appointed National Green Highways Mission - NHAI as the nodal agency for
overall planning, implementation and monitoring of Green Highways project. To ensure
quality plantation and maintenance, a corpus Green Fund" with 1% of the Total Project
Cost (TPC) of all National Highway projects has been created.
As its first step NGH Mission has decided to frame comprehensive guidelines for
implementation of Green Highways Projects. The Guidelines for Green Highways Project will
assist MoRTH/NHAI officials, plantation agencies and other stakeholders in effective
implementation and monitoring of plantation, transplantation, beautification and
maintenance activities along National Highways.

OBJECTIVES
To develop a systematic framework for Integrated Green Corridor Development along

National Highways

To build resilient ecosystem "Green Corridors" along National Highways for

Combating global warming and climate change effects.

Optimum GHG sequestration

Ex-situ conservation of native RET species of the region

To make Green Highways Project self sustainable.

To develop unique green corridors with aesthetic appeal

To reduce the impact of air pollution and dust

To provide shade on glaring hot roads during summers

To reduce the impact of noise pollution due to rising traffic

To reduce soil erosion at embankment slopes

To reduce the effect of wind and incoming UV radiation

1. INTEGRATED GREEN CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT FOR
NEW HIGHWAYS PROJECT
Plantation, transplantation, beautification and maintenance activities will be an integrated
component for all new highway projects. Taking cue from previous highway projects, land
requirement for plantation and allied activities shall be made in planning stage itself, in
order to ensure homogenous width in medians and ROW. Vacant land parcels available near
road alignments and flyovers shall be considered for high density plantation of commercial
agroforestry crops. Provision of funding for planning, implementation and monitoring for
the green corridor development and management shall be done from 1 % of Total Project
Cost of highway project.

1.1 PLANNING
As per the GHP-2015, project report for development of integrated Green Corridor will be
part of the DPR for highway project.

Project report shall be prepared by subject experts in collaboration with NGH Mission,
respective Regional Offices of NHAI/MoRTH and other relevant agencies. Site specific
project report for Green Corridor development shall be in compliance to the IRC SP-21:2009
guidelines and any further directives issued by NGHM. Green corridor planning
methodology can be referred from Section 6 of the Guidelines.

1.1.1 PLANTATION
It has been observed that plantation of exotic tree/shrub species often results in low
survival rate, inferior productivity and higher cost of maintenance. Hence, priority shall be
given to native tree/shrub and grasses of particular agro climatic zone. Selection of
tree/shrubs species for median and avenue plantation shall be strictly as per the Plantation
Species Matrix developed for the purpose of identifying suitable native tree/shrub species
for roadside plantation. Plantation pattern can be referred from Section 6.2 of the
Guidelines.

1.1.2 TRANSPLANTATION
It has been observed that in absence of any clear guidelines for transplantation of trees,
transplantation activities have been kept to minimal. Often bigger or grown up trees are
selected for transplantation and trees below 4 -5 years or lesser girth are felled. But due to
lack of appropriate technology and equipment for transplantation, it often results in low
survival rate of transplanted trees, whereas young trees can be manually transplanted. they
can quickly adapt to new environment thereby have lesser chances of mortality. Hence, for
all new highways projects trees of age 2 years and above shall also be considered for
transplantation. Trees to be transplanted shall be marked and transplantation protocol
depending on the age and species shall be prescribed in the project report. Transplantation
methodology can be referred from Section 6.2 of these guidelines.

1.1.3 BEAUTIFICATION
The sites of cultural, historical importance shall be marked and the landscaping activities
shall be planned to highlight the aesthetics of the site. Additional land requirement for such
purpose can also be explored as per the directives of GHP -2015.

1.1.4 MAINTENANCE
Every project report shall have five year maintenance schedule along with year-wise
expected outcomes such as minimum height and girth of trees planted. This will help in
assessing the quality of plantation.

1.2 IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation of green corridor development projects shall be outsourced to professional
plantation agencies/ local SHG's /JFMC's/ Cooperatives/ NGO and other such organization as
per the approved Plantation SOR adopted by NGH Mission.

Plantation allied activities such as landscaping, beautification which are not part of
Plantation SOR of MoRD, can be taken up through tender process or by calling financial bids
from the registered/empanelled plantation agencies.

Detailed guidelines for implementing plantation projects are mentioned in Section of the
guidelines.

1.3 MONITORING
It is intended to keep real time monitoring of plantation and allied activities for which GIS
enabled data imagery tool" BHUVAN" provided by National Remote Sensing Centre will be
utilized. Plantation Agency will also be required to submit the progress report on weekly
basis to respective PIU, which shall conduct field verification on fortnightly basis. Detailed
monitoring guidelines can be referred from Section 5 of the guidelines.

2. GREEN CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT ON EXISTING NATIONAL HIGHWAY

NETWORK
It is experienced that the scenario of road side plantation is not satisfactory in most of the
projects implemented through BOT, DBFOT and public funded projects. Assessment of
plantation status on existing highways is required to work out remedial measures necessary
for improving the quality and quantity of plantation. In some cases even though the
plantation survival rate and quality is good but the aim shall be to develop robust green
corridor for ensuring optimum GHG sequestration and enhancing the aesthetics

2.1 FOR NH PROJECTS HAVING PLANTATION IN ITS SCOPE OF WORK OF CONCESSION

AGREEMENT

Assessment of existing plantation status shall be done by respective PIU. Report shall be
prepared by respective Plantation Manager of the Regional Office, which needs to be
approved by Regional Officer- NHAI/MoRTH. The report can prescribe additional
developments which although not part of the scope of work but are deemed fit for
accomplishing the vision of Green Highways Policy. Funding for such development works
will be done by NGHM.
Concessionaires shall be implored to take up the improvement work through professional
plantation agencies/local communities in a time bound manner. Notices shall be issued to
Concessionaires who fails to comply, if concessionaire defaults then action must be taken as
per the provisions of Concession Agreement.

In extreme cases additional budget requirement may be fulfilled by NGH Mission on case to
case basis

2.2 FOR NH PROJECTS IN WHICH PLANTATION IS NOT IN SCOPE OF WORK OF CONCESSION

AGREEMENT
It has been observed that since the plantation component was not considered in the
planning stage of highway development, the width of the median and ROW, in many
sections is not sufficient to accommodate even a single row of plant, whereas at some
sections three to four rows can be planted. In order to ensure availability of sufficient width
throughout for green corridor development, possibility of Land acquisition shall be explored.
Land owners of the land adjacent to highways could also be motivated to take up plantation
for which NGH Mission could fund the plantation & maintenance cost.

Site specific project report for green corridor development in such projects shall be
prepared as per the IRC SP-21:2009 guidelines.

3. EMPANELMENT/REGISTRATION OF PLANTATION AGENCIES/ COOPERATIVES/ NGOS/

SHGS/ JFMCS/ WATERSHED COMMITTEES ETC
Agencies interested to take up plantation and allied activities shall be first registered with
NGH Mission. Proposal of registration can be submitted in prescribed formats to respective
Regional Offices or NGHM Headquarters. After due verification agencies will be deemed
empanelled and will be eligible for undertaking plantation and allied activities on behalf of
NGH Mission. The list of empanelled agencies will be uploaded on the website of MoRTH,
NHAI and IHMCL.

3.1 EMPANELMENT OF PLANTATION AGENCIES (PRIVATE LIMITED COMPANIES,

PROPRIETORSHIP FIRMS AND STARTUPS ETC)
After the receiving duly filled application (format Annexure I) from Plantation Agencies,
ROs shall submit verification report in prescribed format to NGHM with their
recommendation for approving or rejecting application.

Evaluating Technical Credentials of Plantation Agencies

Plantation agencies must have following resources to be considered for empanelment

S.no Resources Eligibility Criteria Verification

Report by
RO
1 Team Leader 1. Minimum 3 years of Experience in Plantation/
Transplantation/ Landscaping Activities
2. Education Qualification: Post Graduation/
Graduation in Forestry/ Agriculture/
Horticulture or other relevant stream.
2 Team 1. Minimum 2 years of Experience in Plantation/
Supervisor Transplantation/ Landscaping Activities
2. Education Qualification: Post Graduation/
Graduation in Forestry/ Agriculture/
Horticulture or other relevant stream.
3 Team 1. Minimum 1 year of Experience in Plantation/
Members Transplantation/ Landscaping Activities
2. Education Qualification: Graduation in Forestry/
Agriculture/ Horticulture or other relevant
stream.
4 Details of Transplantation machinery (if available)

Evaluating Relevant Work Experience

Plantation agencies should have completed plantation projects of minimum Rs 5 lakh

project cost. Plantation Agencies will be eligible for getting work order equivalent to their
work experience in plantation projects. Same will be updated on the empanelled list on the
website of MoRTH, NHAI and IHMCL

*STARTUPs will be exempted from work experience qualifications, but they will be
required to fulfill technical credential criteria.
 For example: If any XYZ has completed plantation projects worth Rs 5 lakh at the time of
registration and after empanelment XYZ completes other plantation project of Rs 2 lakh,
then the eligibility of XYZ will be Rs 7 lakh (5 +2).

Agencies can send their request to upgrade their eligibility to respective RO's with a copy to
NGH Headquarter.

3.1 Empanelment of Cooperatives and NGOs

After the receiving duly filled application from Cooperatives & NGOs, ROs shall submit
verification report in prescribed format to NGHM with their recommendation for approving
or rejecting application.

Evaluating Technical Credentials of Cooperatives & NGOs

Agencies must have following resources to be considered for empanelment

S.no Resources Eligibility Criteria Verification

Report by
RO
1 Cooperative/ 1. Minimum 3 years of Experience in Plantation/
NGO Head Transplantation/ Landscaping Activities
/Representative 2. Technical Qualification: Graduation in
Forestry/ Agriculture/ Horticulture or other
relevant stream.
OR
Certificate from recognized govt. agency of
any professional course/training in
plantation/agriculture or other relevant
stream.
2 Cooperative / 1. Minimum 2 years of Experience in Plantation/
NGO Members Transplantation/ Landscaping Activities
2. Technical Qualification: Graduation in
Forestry/ Agriculture/ Horticulture or other
relevant stream.
OR
Certificate from recognized govt. agency of
any professional course/training in
plantation/agriculture or other relevant
stream.

Evaluating Relevant Work Experience

Cooperatives/ NGOs should have completed plantation projects with minimum Rs 2 lakh
project cost. Plantation Agencies will be eligible for getting work order equivalent to their
work experience in plantation projects. Work Order eligibility will be enhanced in proportion
 to amount of work completed. Same will be updated on the empanelled list on the website
of MoRTH, NHAI and IHMCL

For example: If any XYZ has completed plantation projects worth Rs 5 lakh at the time of
registration and after empanelment XYZ completes other plantation project of Rs 2 lakh,
then the eligibility of XYZ will be Rs 7 lakh (5 +2).

Agencies can send their request to upgrade their eligibility to respective RO's with a copy to
NGH Headquarter.

3.2 Empanelment of Community Based Organizations/LSGs such as FPOs/ SHGs/ JFMCs/

Watershed Committees/ Gram Panchayats etc

Community Based Organizations/ LSGs will be considered for empanelment based on the
accreditation received from Collector/Forest Department/ Horticulture Dept or RO-NHAI.

Initially CBOs/LSGs will be awarded work for maximum Rs 12 lakh as per plantation SOR of
MoRD. Work Award eligibility will be upgraded on annual basis for CBOs/LSGs on successful
completion of project awarded. Eligibility can also be upgraded earlier in case CBOs/LSGs
are able to complete to their previous project before scheduled annual up-gradation.

Format for submitting Application for registration is enclosed is enclosed at Annexure 1.

Plantation SOR of MoRD for Roadside Plantation is enclosed at Annexure 2.

4. IMPLEMENTATION OF PLANTATION, TRANSPLANTATION , BEAUTIFICATION AND

MAINTENANCE ACTIVITIES

4.1 BASED ON PLANTATION SOR OF MORD FOR ROADSIDE PLANTATION

Empanelled agencies can be awarded work order by respective RO's. Empanelled agencies
will be paid on completing project milestone as per the approved Plantation SOR of MoRD
for roadside plantation. If some plantation and allied activities which are prescribed in the
project report are not mentioned in Plantation SOR of MoRD, then SOR for such activities
will be prepared by NGHM.

Empanelled Agencies of respective RO will be selected on priority for the award of work. In
case there are no empanelled agencies of particular Region, then work can be awarded to
other empanelled agencies.
Payment cycle will be distributed over the period of five years (1 st year- 40 %, 2nd year- 20 %,
3rd year- 10 %, 4th year -10 %, 5th year -10 %). MoRD plantation & maintenance schedule will
be referred. Payments will be released in phased manner to empanelled agencies which will
be based on Plantation Survival Rate and Works completion as per Plantation &
Maintenance Schedule

4.2 SWISS CHALLENGE PROPOSAL

Site specific Innovative proposals regarding plantation, transplantation, beautification can
be accepted by NGH Mission from agroforestry industries/STARTUPs. The proposal shall be
in coherence with the spirit of Green Highways Policy and shall be commercially viable.
Such proposal will be considered under Swiss Challenge on case to case basis. If the
proposal is in-principally approved by NGH Mission, then it should be included in the
project report of that particular section of National Highway.

4.3 FOR LARGE PROJECT BASED ON RFQ-RFP

NGH Mission may develop project based RFQ-RFP for selection of eligible agency for
projects involving large scale plantation, transplantation and landscaping activities.

4.4 PLANTATION THROUGH PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION

It has been observed that many voluntary organizations are interested to participate in
greening National Highways. Similar kinds of initiatives are usually taken up by Nursery
owners who prefer to locate their nurseries adjacent to highways, showcasing various
ornamental plants to seek attention of potential buyers. Many corporate are also interested
to promote plantation activities under their CSR head. In urban areas Corporate usually do
such activities to market their brand. Similarly farmers and citizens take up boundary side
plantations on their own property adjacent to National Highways. Such initiatives are
effective tool for sensitizing common people towards environment conservation and will
enhance people's participation in greening highways.

4.4.1 Plantation through Institutional tie-ups

Plantations with support of such organizations (Nursery owners, NGO's, Corporate etc)
which are willing to contribute on voluntary basis may be taken up by ROs. RO's will be
authorized to sign MoU (Annexure III) with these agencies/individuals. Project MoU shall
prescribe plantation and maintenance schedule in accordance to these guidelines.

4.4.2 Tree adoption scheme (Citizen/ Farmers)

Citizens/ Farmers can take up boundary plantation and management on their own property
adjacent to National Highway. In such cases Plantation and maintenance cost will be funded
by NGHM. Request for Tree Adoption Scheme can be submitted by citizens/ farmers at
respective PIU or Regional Office. Monitoring of such plantations shall be as per the
monitoring guidelines mentioned in Section 5.

4.4.3 Contribution for Green Fund

Monetary contributions can be sought from Corporate/ Institutions and general Public, for
"green fund". To make this scheme lucrative, It is proposed to grant tax benefits on such
donations. Corporate entities contributing in green fund can also be allowed to show it
under CSR head.

5. QUALITY ASSURANCE MECHANISM

5.1 MAPPING PLANTATIONS THROUGH GIS BASED APPLICATION
National Remote Sensing Centre will assist NGHM in providing Geo Spatial technologies and
high resolution satellite imagery data for real time monitoring of plantation and allied
activities. This tool will assist RO's and NGH Mission in ensuring day to day monitoring of
plantation project.

5.2 MONITORING BY RESPECTIVE PIU/RO

It will be the responsibility of respective PIU/RO to ensure effective implementation and
monitoring of the plantation projects. Field verification shall be carried out of Plantation
Manager of respective RO/PIU with respect to survival, growth and size of plantation and
maintenance of the same. Progress report of every plantation project shall be prepared
after field verification; the progress report shall be submitted fortnightly on 3rd and 18th of
every month to NGH Mission. Progress report shall also be sent to implementing agency for
taking remedial measures if required. Details of Plantation progress shall be uploaded on
the website as well.
The survival shall be 90 % after raising the plantation for one year at any stage during
contractual period with normal shape and size. Expected growth, shape and size shall be as
per the project report.

5.3 DEFAULT
5.3.1 If any agency fails to arrange the sufficient quantities of
material/manure/pesticide/manpower/equipment required to maintain the work in good
condition within 7 days of its notification, the nodal agency will reserve the right to get it
arranged at their risk and cost and will charge extra 20 % on the actual expenditure
incurred. In exceptional cases, RO- MoRTH/NHAI may consider to extend the time limit
mentioned above. The decision of RO-MoRTH/NHAI shall be final and binding on the
contractor in respect of extension of time for rectification of defects. However, all
complaints will be attended promptly and within the time limit by RO-MoRTH/NHAI.

5.3.2 In case if default on the part of the concessionaire with respect to planting or
maintenance of plantation (as provided under schedule C and schedule E of he concession
agreement) and based on the report and recommendation of the Plantation Manager,
action may be taken as per the conditions of the concession agreement or MoU with the
concerned agency.
5.4 PENALTY
In case of default on the part of the contractor/concessionaire with respect to planting or
maintenance of plantations, action will be taken as per the conditions of the concession
agreement/contract agreement or MoU with the concerned agency. The legal and financial
liabilities shall be borne by the plantation agency for non compliance to Forest Conservation
Act, 1980 and subsequent amendments and Forest Conservation rules ad local laws.

6. GREEN CORRIDOR PLANNING METHODOLOGY

The road landscape shall be developed envisaging a holistic approach to the entire stretch. A
concept shall be evolved so as to maintain visual characteristics and uniformity in terms of
landscape along the stretch. In the absence of uniform land availability for plantations,
different scheme may be worked out in tune with the local variations in the design. To
achieve this, the entire stretch of the project corridor shall be divided into homogenous
landscape sections based on similarity in terms of available width, soil conditions, climate
(temperature and rainfall) and topography.

For any green belt development Tree/shrub species shall be selected based on its ecological
importance, economic value and suitability for roadside plantation. The focus shall be on
planting native tree/shrubs species with ecological importance contributing towards higher
GHG sequestration, soil-water conservation, nitrogen fixation etc. During selection process
priority shall also be given to RET (rare, endangered or threatened) tree/ shrub species to
promote conservation and enhance ecosystem values.

Tree/shrubs species with economic benefits such as fuel, fodder, flower, fruit and timber
value shall also be given due consideration.

6.1 SELECTION OF TREE/SHRUB SPECIES - PLANTATION SPECIES MATRIX

Not every tree/shrub species is capable in fulfilling the objectives as desired for green
corridor. Thats why NGHM has developed a Plantation Species Matrix, which is a
mathematical decision making tool for selection of suitable tree/shrub species for roadside
plantations.

For identification of suitable tree/shrubs an Excel based model has been developed which
compares different plant species on three fundamental Principals- Ecological, Economic &
Aesthetics. The criteria and indicators for the model were developed based on the Central
Pollution Control Board, MoEF guidelines for Green Corridor Development and in
compliance to the existing guidelines (IRC SP 21:2009) of Indian Road Congress for
plantation and landscaping.
Report on Plantation Species Matrix and supporting excel based tool is enclosed at
Annexure The tool can be utilized during project planning for selecting suitable
tree/shrub species of respective agro climatic zone.

6.2 PLANTATION TECHNIQUE FOR GREEN CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT

Vehicles are the mobile sources of gaseous as well as particulate pollution. Components of
green belts on roadside hence should be both absorbers of gases as well as of dust
particulates including even lead particulates. The choice of plants should include shrubs of
heights between 1 to 4 m and tree of 3 to 20 m height, the intermixing of trees and shrubs
should be such that the foliage area density in vertical is almost uniform. A green belt of
such a design and having width of 30 to 50 m will enable higher pollution attenuation
capacity. Depending on the available ROW, plantation pattern shall be worked out as
follows:

- The first row along the highways will be of small to medium size ornamental trees
- Subsequent rows depending on the availability of width will comprise of ornamental
and/or shade bearing species of more height than those in the first rows. In rural
sections the last row shall always be shade bearing tall trees.
- Planting of shrubs in the median
- Planting of herbaceous species as ground cover in the median, special landscapes
and embankment sloped.
- Turfing of grass in the median, special landscapes and embankment slopes.

6.2.1 SPECIAL LANDSCAPES /EMBANKMENT SLOPES/OR THE MEDIAN

The surface is to be prepared adequately for shrubs planting or grass sowing. All masses of
loose debris shall be removed. Any convexities shall be removed and similarly any
concavities are to be filled by good soil. The surface shall have sufficient layer of good
quality soil (up to 45 cm) so as to have better growth and survival of grasses and shrubs.

Grass lines are used to provide a strong surface cover but need a well prepared surface. It
must be allowed to establish properly on a slope which is not subject to undue stress from
erosion and mass movement in its initial stages. Sowing of grasses is intended to create a
strengthened surface that is resistant to erosion.

It is the responsibility of planting agency to ensure that the condition of the site is good
enough for the successful establishment of grasses. The planting agency is required to
supervise all field operations like preparation of surface. Sowing of grasses and quality of
grasses seeds used.

A cover of 25 grams of seeds per square meter of surface shall be achieved. The timing of
sowing is of utmost importance. The seed sowing must be carried out before the onset of
monsoon. so that they yield desired results. After sowing, mulch of prepared and dried out
herbs shall be laid over the whole seeded area in a thin layer so that the direct sunlight and
transpiration loss may not affect the grasses.

6.2.2 AVENUE PLANTATION

Multiple row of plantation is advised for better protection against soil erosion and water
purification. Plantation shall be done in a zig-zag manner.

Technical Specification

Row I

Distance from embankment 1 mt away from the toe of embankment

Spacing between plant to plant 3 mt
Spacing between rows 5 mt
Size of the pits (normal soil) 60 X 60 X 60 cm
For Alkaline soil (usar) By augar
Water logged areas mounds with height varying depending on
the water level
No. of plants per Km 333
Height of the plant 1.5 m to 2 m

Penultimate Row (If space for III Row is available)

Distance from preceding row 3 to 4.5 mt (depending on the width available)

Spacing between plant to plant 3 mt
Spacing between rows 5 mt
Size of the pits (normal soil) 60 X 60 X 60 cm
For Alkaline soil (usar) By augar
Water logged areas mounds with height varying depending on the
water level
No. of plants per Km 220
Height of the plant more than 2 m

Shade Plants Last Row (II OR III row)

Distance from preceding row 4.5mt

Spacing between plant to plant 4.5 mt
Size of the pits (normal soil) 60 X 60 X 60 cm
For Alkaline soil (usar) By augar
Water logged areas mounds
No. of plants per Km 110
Height of the plant more than 2 m
(Case I)

3.3 ft
10 ft 10 ft

15 ft

20 ft 20 ft

(Case II)

3.3 ft
10 ft 10 ft

15 ft

15ft 15 ft

15 ft
20 ft 20 ft

In location where a really bad patch of usar occurs, there is a need to dig deep pits by
augar(mechanical device) and replacing it by good quality soil. The soil amender Gypsum 1
to 3 kg, depending on the pH along with 2 kg compost and sand shall be filled in the pits.
The treatment helps in lowering down the pH and thus enhancing better survival of plants.

6.2.2 Specification for Median Plantation

The shrubs to be planted in the median shall be of low or medium height for prevention of
the headlight glare. One to two rows of flowering shrubs may be provided according to the
varying width of the median in different sections. In sections where the median width is less
than 1.5 m, only grasses turf is advisable. Some herbaceous species may also be planted as
ground cover, not only on the medians but on special landscapes and embankment slopes
also.
One or two rows of flowering shrubs are recommended in accordance to the varying width
of the median in different sections. In sections where median width is less than 1.5 meter,
only grass turf is recommended. In median width of 3 meter one row of shrub whereas in 5
meter median width, plantation of two rows of flowering shrubs at a spacing of 1.5 meter
from the inner edge is recommended. The plants shall be at spacing of 3 X 3 meters and size
of the pits for planting shall be 0.6 m dia and deep.

The surface for the median plantation shall be well prepared. The masses of loose debris on
the median and any convexities shall be removed and similarly any concavities are to be
filled with good soil. The surface shall have sufficient layer of good quality soil so as to have
a better growth and survival of grasses and shrubs.

6.2.3 Transplantation

Occasion may arise when grown up or young tree have to be cut for making room for
constructing a road, a building or other structure. It will be desirable to save these
plants/trees by transplanting, it at a suitable site. It has been observed that in absence of
any clear guidelines for transplantation of trees, transplantation activities have been kept to
minimal. Often bigger or grown up trees are selected for transplantation and trees below 4 -
5 years or lesser girth are felled. But due to lack appropriate technology and equipments for
transplantation of grown up trees results in low survival rate, whereas young trees can be
manually transplanted and can quickly adapt to new environment. Hence, for all new
highways projects trees of age 2 years and above shall be considered for transplantation.

Transplanting Technique for trees above 5 years of age

In winter when the tree is dormant or less active, it shall be pruned heavily leaving a bare
framework of the large branches. A 40 to 50 m wide trench 1 to 2 m deep shall be dug
around the stem as much distance away from it, depending upon the stature of the
specimen, cutting all the roots, big and small, in the process. The job of tree transplantation
is quite complex and requires high quality expertise, techniques besides specialized
equipment and infrastructure.

The location of transplantation is to be identified and preliminary treatment is to be done at

least 3 months in advance before the area is ready for transplantation. Transplantation of
trees depends on the soil and climate conditions of that area. Specialized techniques are
required in transplantation of trees with specialized equipment and machinery.
Transplantation of trees shall be done to the maximum extent possible on the National
Highways to save the trees along ROW. The transplantation site shall be within 5 km of the
existing tree location.

6.2.4 PLANTATIONS ON VACANT LAND PARCELS

There are various agroforestry industries which are dependent on Agriculture or forest
produce for their raw material. Pulp & paper industries, Fiber board manufacturing units and
various small scale cottage industries (furniture, incense sticks, handicraft, floriculture, food
processing) are dependent on forest/farmers for raw material supply.

Although, it is commercially viable option for them to take up captive plantation on their
own but provisions of Land Ceiling Act and unavailability of continuous land stretch for
captive plantation makes it difficult for Agro forestry industries to practice this option.

Captive plantations of commercial crops can be initiated on the vacant land parcels available
with NHAI near flyovers and road alignments. User rights of these lands can be given to
agroforestry industries which can take up plantation, management and sustainable
harvesting during the concession period. NGH Mission based on the project feasibility can
transfer user rights based on project development fees, annual premium and profit sharing
from the concessionaire.

6.2.5 Protection Measure

The fencing of single row plantation will be done by using tree (iron/brick/cement/bamboo)
guards. The fencing of multiple row plantations shall be done preferably by barbed wire. A
five strand barbed wire fencing, with cross strands, stretched on angle iron poles fixed at a
distance of 4 meter from one another is recommended. Live fencing/bamboo fencing/thorn
fencing/CPT may also be used wherever protection can be ensured through these. The
specification for barbed wire fencing shall be as per IRC SP-21:2009.

6.2.6 Road Safety

The first row of plantation shall be sufficiently away from the roadway so that they are not a
hazard to road traffic or restrict the visibility. Most vulnerable location in this regard are the
inside curve, median, junction corner and cut slopes. Trees shall be planted at a minimum
distance of 14 m from the central line of extreme traffic lane to provide to provide recovery
area for the vehicle that runs of the road. Growth of vegetation close on the road curve
may lead to serious reduction of clear sight distance and may cause accidents. Tall and
overgrown plants on and near the curve is not permissible. In plain terrain, a stopping site
distance of 170m corresponding to the designed speed of 100 km per hour shall be ensured
on all curved sections, on the innermost lane of the curve.

6.2.7 Maintenance of Plantation

The scope of five years maintenance work and its schedule shall be prescribed in Project
report.

6.2.8 PLANTATION IN ROW NOTIFIED AS FOREST (PROTECTED/RESERVED/PAS)

There are sections of highways where the plantations in ROW have been notified as Forest
(Protected/Reserved/PAs). For these areas permission for tree cutting is granted by Forest
Department under the Forest Conservation Act, 1980. While granting the permission, the
forest department stipulates the conditions not only for compensatory afforestation (CA)
but also for avenue plantation. In these cases, the amount for avenue plantation is
deposited with the Forest Department and normally the work of avenue plantation is taken
up by Forest Department apart from CA.

Such plantations can also be given to Forest Development Corporations of respective state
which can sign a MoU with NGHM for plantation and management activities and also
sharing the sustainable harvest earnings with NGHM.

7. FORWARD LINKAGES

7.1 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS FOR BUY BACK OF SUSTAINABLE HARVEST

It is proposed to establish institutional tie-ups with agroforestry industries (pulp, paper, bio-
ethanol, floriculture etc) for the buyback of sustainable harvest. This collaborative model is
expected to generate desired funds, manpower and technological resources for the Green
Highways Project. NGH Mission will be responsible for establishing such associations but
ROs shall also strive to establish buy back arrangement with local agroforestry industries.

7.2 REGISTERING CARBON SEQUESTRATION BENEFITS UNDER CLEAN DEVELOPMENT MECHANISM

NGH plantations, being outside forests and outside conventional green cover will be eligible
for carbon credits under CDM. It is estimated to bring approx 4 lakh acre land under
vegetation cover in next ten years. Trees/Shrubs/Grasses all contribute in sequestering
Green House Gases which are stored not only in the woody vegetation but also in soil. It is
expected to sequester 3 MT C/ac/yr amounting to annual sequestration capacity of 12 lakh
MT carbon/yr, it is expected that by 2030 CERs can be traded in Carbon Offset Markets at
the rate of $ 80 per MT of Carbon equivalents. This could generate Rs 576 crore annually.
This is in addition to sustainable harvest that could be sold to agroforestry industries.

7.3 CONVERGENCE OF FEDERAL SCHEMES

Various federal schemes works with the objective of increasing the green cover of the
country and create livelihood opportunities. Integrating NGH plantation with other federal
schemes (MGNERA, GIM, PMGSY etc) will help in mobilizing additional funding resources for
Green Highways Project.

7.4 USUFRUCT RIGHTS FOR RURAL C OMMUNITIES

The usufructs from the roadside plantations will be shared with the rural communities as
per the following arrangements

- From plantation raised by Forest Department, the share will be determined and
approved by the competent authority in the Forest Department and will be specified in
the plantation scheme.
 - In case plantations are raised by CBOs/LSGs then they will have full right on
intermediary produce such as NTFP, fuel-wood and fodder for the period of contract.
The usufruct right may be extended in case CBOs/LSGs are willing to protect the
plantation from encroachment and illicit felling.

8. MISCELLANEOUS
8.1 Compliance to Forest Conservation Act and local laws

Before starting any plantation the local forest department will be consulted for ensuring
compliance to any regulation in force that may affect raising, maintenance and harvesting of
the raised plantation. Necessary modification will be made in the plantation scheme, in
consultation with the forest department, to ensure compliance to law and to avoid
complications at the time of harvesting and transportation of forest produce. In case the
state government has any provision for registration of such plantations the same will be
ensured under the relevant scheme.

8.2 PERFORMANCE AUDIT

Performance audit of all executing agencies shall be done on annual basis and award of new
contracts to the agencies will be decided based on their past performance.

8.3 AWARDS TO PLANTATION A GENCIES

Based on the performance in terms of plantation and maintenance of median, avenue and
block plantations, Awards will be given to the Best Performing Agencies every year, in
following categories

A. Best Median Plantation

B. Best Avenue Plantation
C. Best Block Plantation on vacant land parcels.
D. Best Landscaping
E. Best Transplantation

8.4 MARKETING & ADVERTISEMENT

Plantation agencies may utilize tree guards, fencing and other similar areas for
advertisement of their brand. The focus of advertisement shall be on environment
conservation and pollution control. The advertisement size, color and texture shall strictly
be in accordance to the prevailing road safety guidelines. For the purpose of this clause
Second party shall submit their advertisement plan in project report.
ANNEXURE-I

FORMAT I: APPLICATION FOR EMPANELMENT OF PLANTATION AGENCIES/

COOPERATIVES/ NGOS/ SHGS/ JFMCS/ WATERSHED COMMITTEES ETC

Name of the Applicant Agency

Type of Agency*
(Private Company/ Proprietorship Firm/
Cooperatives/ NGOs/ Registered Society/
SHGs/ JFMCs/ Watershed committees etc)
Authorized Contact Person
Address & Contact Details
Email ID
Relevant Plantation/ Transplantation/
Landscaping Experience** (please mention
total project cost)
Team Composition (Details of team leader,
team supervisor/ members)***
Any other expertise (Availability of
Transplantation machinery etc)

Signature of Authorized Signatory

Name

Designation

Agency Name & Seal

Please enclose certificate of registration and other relevant document such as MoA, AoA, and Income
Tax return of last financial year. ( CBOs/LSGs are only required to submit registration document along
with accreditation from Collector/Forest Department/Horticulture Dept or RO- NHAI/MoRTH)

** Please enclose relevant document for verification such as Work Order, Work Completion, Photographs
of plantation site

*** Detailed CV of Team Leader, Team Supervisor and other members along with relevant experience and
education qualification documents.

**** Affidavit certifying that all the information submitted by the agency is true to best of his/her
knowledge.

***** Complete application form along with covering letter on the letterhead of the agency can be
submitted at PIU/RO/ NGHM Headquarters. Application can also be sent through Email or by Speed Post.

*****CBOs/LSGs are not required to submit work experience certificate.

 ANNXURE II
MODEL PLANTATION SOR OF MORD FOR ROADSIDE PLANTATION UNDER
MNREGA
(INCLUSIVE OF FIVE YEARS MAINTENANCE )
 ANNEXURE III
Memorandum of Understanding
(Median & Avenue Plantation through people's participation)

This MOU is entered between:-

National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which is an Authority, constituted by an

Act of Parliament, NHAI Act 1988 for the development, maintenance and
management of National Highways and for matters connected therewith for
incidental thereto and having its registered regional office at
.. hereinafter referred to as First Party.

and

having its registered

officer at.hereinafter referred to as Second
Party.

The expression party shall, unless it is repugnant to the context or meaning thereof
be deemed to mean and include its successors and assignees and associates.

The parties to this MOU are individually referred to as party and collectively referred
to as parties hereafter.

WHEREAS

Ministry of Road, Transport, Highways & Shipping has unveiled Green Highway
Policy - 2015 with the vision "to develop highways for economic development and
growth in a sustainable manner with participation of local self government/private
agencies/forest department".

NHAI has been entrusted with the task of plantation, transplantation, beautification
and maintenance along National Highways. To accomplish this mandate, NHAI
intends to promote people's participation in greening highways. Organizations willing
to contribute in plantation and allied activities on voluntary basis will be invited to
work with NHAI.

NOW THEREFORE IN CONSIDERATION OF THE PREMISES AND THE MUTUAL

COVENANTS HEREINAFTER CONTAINED, THE PARTIES HERETO HEREBY
AGREE AND SIGN THIS MOU AS UNDER:

1.1 Date of signing: The date of signing of this MOU shall be the date on which
authorized signatories of both the parties i.e. NHAI & affix
their signatures and that shall be the Effective Date for the MOU.

1.2 Duration of MOU: Initially, the term of the MOU is two years from the Effective
Date. The term can be further extended on the expiry of the initial two year
period by mutual consent.

1.3 Review of MOU: Implementation of this MOU will be reviewed every three
months by both the parties at the level not less than Regional Officer in NHAI
along with Second Party.

2. Area of Cooperation:

Consequent to the discussion held between NHAI and Second Party, both the
parties intend to undertake median and avenue plantation and allied activities on
NH from Section.to Section the details about the project
components are enclosed at Annexure-A.

3. Implementation Modalities

3.1 All plantation and allied works intended through this MoU shall be under the
spirit of Green Highway Policy-2015 (Annexure-B) and its amendment thereof.
The plantation and maintenance activities shall be under strict compliance to
guidelines issued by NGHM and IRC SP -21:2009 (Annexure-C) for plantation
and landscaping activities or any other future amendments issued by
MoRTH or NHAI.
3.2 Selection of tree/shrub species shall be based on its suitability to agro climatic
zone and its pollution tolerance capability. For the purpose of this MoU, list of
tree/shrubs to be planted shall be vetted by National Green Highways-NHAI.

3.3 Second party will be responsible for submitting detailed project report
including but not limited to Plantation & Maintenance Schedule, Sustainable
Harvesting methodology, timeline and project cost. Project report shall be duly
approved by National Green Highways-NHAI.

3.4 Second party may utilise tree guards, fencing and other similar areas for
advertisement of their brand. The focus of advertisement shall be on
environment conservation and pollution control. The advertisement size,
colour and texture shall strictly be in accordance to the prevailing road
safety guidelines. For the purpose of this clause Second party shall submit
their advertisement plan in project report.

3.5 Any payments to the second party will be subject to completion of

corresponding project deliverable. The payment shall be transferred by
National Green Highways - NHAI after getting verification report from
respective Regional Office-NHAI.

4. Exclusivity:

The MOU is based on principle of non-exclusivity for both parties. It means that
each party is free to have similar arrangement with other party and no party will
object to such kind of arrangement.

5. Confidentiality:

Any information including the data provided by any party to this MOU will be treated
with Confidentiality by the other party. As NHAI carries out several of its activities
through its consultants, NHAI may share the data with its project specific consultants
exclusively for its intended use. The sharing of information with the consultants shall
be governed by clauses of Confidentiality.

6. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR):

The process falling under the category of intellectual property like methodology
adopted, original data, derived data, documents generated etc will be treated as the
Intellectual Property and the Right to use of the same will remain with the owner
thereof. The data can be used by both parties with mutual consent.

7. Modifications to MOU:

Any modifications to this MoU shall be made only with mutual consent of both the
parties in writing. Unless otherwise agreed to, the effective date of the modification /
changes shall be the date on which the modification is signed by both the parties.

8. Force majeure:

8.1 A Party shall not be liable to the other Party for any loss, injury, delay, damages
or other casualty suffered or incurred on account of Force Majeure inclusive of
exigency of one or more of the unforeseen events such as but not limited to
Acts of God, war, flood, earthquake, cyclones, strikes, lockouts, epidemics,
riots , civil commotion, and any failure or delay by any Party in performance of
its obligations under this Agreement due to Force Majeure event shall not be
considered as a breach of this Agreement.

8.2 The Party suffering Force Majeure event shall notify the other Party in writing
promptly after the occurrence of such Force Majeure event and shall, to the
extent reasonable and lawful, use its best efforts to remove or remedy such
cause. Upon the occurrence of Force Majeure, the Party claiming Force
Majeure shall use all reasonable endeavours to continue to perform its
obligations under this Agreement and to minimize the adverse effects of such
circumstances. The Affected Party shall notify the other Party of the steps it
proposes to take including any reasonable alternative means for performance.
In the event any obligation cannot be performed due to continuance of a
Force Majeure event within a reasonable period, the Parties agree that the
time period for the performance of such obligation shall stand extended for an
equivalent period after such time as the Force Majeure event ceases to exist.

8.3 However, if in the opinion of Parties, the Force Majeure event is not likely to be
cured within a reasonable time frame the Parties may decide to terminate the
Project and all expenses incurred till date would be written off.
9. Indemnity:

Each Party shall indemnify and keep indemnified the other Party from and against all
consequences and liabilities arising out of or in any way connected with the
indemnifying Party's negligence, fault, nuisance, breach of this Agreement and
failure to perform its obligations under this Agreement, except to the extent that the
same is attributable to a negligent or willful act or omission of the Party seeking to be
indemnified.

10. Arbitration:

10.1 In the event of any dispute or difference between the parties hereto, such
disputes or differences shall be resolved amicably by mutual consultation. If
such resolution is not possible, then unresolved dispute or differences shall be
referred to arbitration of one of the arbitrators to be appointed by the
Secretary, In charge of Bureau of Public Enterprises. The provisions of
Arbitration & Conciliation Act, 1996 (No. 26 of 1996) shall be applicable to the
Arbitration. The venue of such arbitration shall be at Delhi or any other place,
as may be decided by arbitrator. The language of arbitration proceedings shall
be English. The arbitrator shall make a reasoned award (the Award), which
shall be final and binding on the parties. The cost of the arbitration shall be
shared equally by the parties to the MOU. However, expenses occurred by
each party in connection with preparation, presentation should be borne by
the parties itself.

10.2 Pending the submission of and / or decision on a dispute, difference or claim

or until the arbitral award is published; the parties shall continue to perform all
of their obligations under this MoU without prejudice to a final adjustment in
accordance with such award.

11. Jurisdiction

Any dispute arising out of the MOU or the terms shall be subject to the exclusive
jurisdiction of Delhi only.
12. Termination: (for Cause, Convenience, and Force Majeure):

During the tenure of the MoU, either Party may terminate and nullify this MoU by
providing prior written notice of 30 days to the other party for any of the reasons -
Cause/convenience/Force Majeure.

13. Obligations upon Termination:

The rights and obligations of the parties thereto shall be settled by mutual
discussion; the financial settlement if any shall take into consideration not only
the expenditure incurred but also the expenditure committed by the parties.

14. IN WITNESS whereof the parties respectively set their hands here below:

Signature
Signed by :
Designation :
For and on Behalf of :NHAI
Date :

Signature -
Signed by :
Designation :
For and on Behalf of :

Date