As modern highways proliferate across India, environmentalists and botanists are raising alarms about the ecological repercussions of using non-native ornamental plants in landscaping. A recent meeting in Chandigarh, organized by the National Medicinal Plant Board, highlighted the urgent need to rethink these practices.
Dr. Tara Sen from Vallabh Government College pointed out that stretches of highways, once adorned with vibrant native Himalayan flora, are now dominated by exotic species. This shift not only diminishes the region's ecological value but also threatens local biodiversity.
Experts advocate for the integration of native plant species, which can provide food, fodder, and medicinal benefits while being better adapted to local conditions. Recommended species include Butea monosperma (Palash) and Myrica esculenta (Kafal), which support wildlife and require less maintenance.
Environmentalist Narender Saini emphasized that adopting native flora could mitigate issues like soil erosion and enhance carbon sequestration. The call for sustainable practices in highway landscaping is seen as crucial, especially in light of increasing natural disasters in North India.
Dr. Tara concluded that prioritizing native species in highway beautification not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also fosters long-term ecological health, urging a balance between development and nature for future generations.