NHAI Tightens Compliance Norms for Plantation Before Issuance of Provisional Certificate of Completion for National Highway Projects
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has issued comprehensive guidelines to ensure strict compliance with plantation and landscaping contractual obligations for National Highway projects. Under the new norms, a Provisional Certificate of Completion requires plantation on at least 80% of the available Right of Way with a minimum survival rate of 90%. Additionally, the release of maintenance payments and assessment of compliance are now linked to maintaining this 90% survival rate throughout the Operations and Maintenance period.
Why It Matters
This is relevant for candidates preparing for competitive exams covering government policies, infrastructure development, and environment management under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways.
In Simple Words
NHAI has introduced strict new guidelines to make sure tree plantation and landscaping are properly completed along National Highway projects. Contractors must now meet specific targets before getting a Provisional Certificate of Completion.
Specifically, plantation must cover at least 80% of the available Right of Way with a 90% sapling survival rate at inspection. Financial withholdings apply for shortfalls, and continued maintenance payments depend on sustaining this 90% survival rate throughout the operations period.
Key Points
- NHAI issued guidelines mandating plantation and landscaping for National Highway projects.
- Guidelines follow the Green Highways Policy, 2015 and IRC:SP:21-2009.
- Provisional Certificate of Completion requires at least 80% plantation of the available Right of Way.
- Planted saplings must record a minimum survival rate of 90% at inspection.
- Financial withholdings will be enforced for plantation shortfalls.
- O M and annuity payments in EPC, HAM, and BOT projects require maintaining a 90% survival rate.
- Plant casualties must be replaced with plants of similar age and growth.
- NHAI will use expert technical assistance to verify field-level compliance.
Exam Angle
A. A minimum survival rate of 90%
Source: Press Information Bureau