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Scientific approach to tree plantation

A scientific approach to tree plantation is needed to ensure a `green Visakha' and to mitigate problems like pollution which are bound to grow with the re-classification of the city into 'Greater Visakha', says a Professor in the Biotechnology Division of Andhra University Madhava Rao.

The denuding of hills due to human activities on the hill slopes will lead to runoff of rainwater and thereby cause floods.

It would also lead to erosion of precious topsoil and may result in landslides. Hill vegetation apart from protecting the city from pollution and excessive temperatures can collect dust and reduce noise pollution.

Green plants can filter, accumulate and tolerate different pollutants released by industries.

Prof. Madhava Rao feels that different species of plants could be used to combat different kinds of pollution.

These include dust collectors, air pollution absorbers, heavy metal scavenging, wind barriers and temperature regulators.

He calls for greater research in the field of environmental safety and protection through plants and in the selection of right plants to meet specific requirements. Availability of scientific information can help in this regard.

In the selection of avenue trees, plants that help in reducing automobile exhausts, dust, noise, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide should be the first choice.

The umbrella-shaped trees on the roadside form long green tunnels, which increases concentration and focus the driver's eyes on the road.

Planting of halophytes (plants that grow in high salt content) on the coastline will prevent sand erosion, he adds.

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