Native saplings to bloom in Pondy Bazaar soon

After carrying out a survey to identify the type of plants that can be grown on the 1.5-kilometre stretch, the Care Earth Trust have sent their suggestions to the Greater Chennai Corporation. The trust has identified a varieties of native saplings like different types of palms, apart from some ornate and ornamental flowering species. The varieties will be easy to maintain and complement the busy stretch.

Talking to DT Next, Muthu Karthick, a botanist part of Care Earth Trust, said that they have ensured that the saplings chosen would suit the area. 

“Apart from the fact they have to withstand extremities in weather like high wind velocity, we also wanted saplings that didn’t have very deep roots. The area has a combination of underground and above the ground infrastructure. The roots of the plants will not face much constraint as they are not very deep,” he explained. He added that busiest international cities have palm varieties on the roads.

Palm varieties like Palmyra and Phoenix are best suited as the road sees heavy vehicular and pedestrian movement. They are strong and can grow above 20 metres in height. For a good-looking foliage, alstonia and badam saplings have been recommended. “We have also kept in mind the aesthetics of the stretch,” he said.

The list of species includes Thespesia, an indigenous plant. “It is a coastal variety but can grow in densely populated cities as well. They have beautiful flowers and can add to the beauty of the road,” he added.

A pedestrian plaza, as part of Smart City project is underway in the area and the planting drive will give the stretch agreen boost.