Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

Green brigade

Sir, — I refer to the news item "Towards eradicating poverty" (Dec. 3). I suggest that all along the railway lines, neem trees be planted on both sides. Rural people may be engaged to plant and nurse the trees. To be closer to the work spot, dwelling units in the shape of sleeper coaches may be built along the railway line, using the labour of those who will live in them. Each line will have 10 line houses. With five floors, 50 dwelling units will be available. The workers may be given food for work. To supplement their income, they may be allowed to raise flowers and vegetables along the line till the trees grow up. Neem trees will give shade, the green leaves are fodder to goats, its oil is natural pesticide and oil cake is manure. All parts of the tree are also used for Ayurvedic medicines. After 20-25 years, the trees would yield valuable timber.

Similarly, trees may be planted all along highways. A toll may be collected from passing vehicles to meet the expenses. There are barren hills. To make them green, perhaps a green brigade may be raised. This will provide rural employment, check air pollution and create wealth.

P. Ishwarya,

Kochi

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