Dear Editor,
Improving our road network is symbolic of development and progress in any country. Guyana for years has been plagued with poor road quality due to a lack of maintenance and deficient engineering acumen. However, over the last few years, we have seen significant improvements in our road network that facilitate easier access for commuters. One must also consider that when road expansion is occurring we are becoming closer to the concrete jungle scenario. My observation on the Sheriff-Mandela road is that the medians are being concreted and on Carifesta Avenue and along the East Coast the dirt is being removed and replaced with clay bricks.
Road medians are very important in the context of today’s dispensation. We have global warming knocking at our doorsteps with its destructive forces across all paradigms. More so, pollution wreaking havoc in many countries resulting in severe illness and destruction of our ecosystems. Medians provide an opportunity for road beautification and landscaping with many ornamentals and other tree species being planted along the earthen pathway. In addition to beautifying the environment, these plants will also absorb carbon dioxide as it is released from vehicles.
While it will be in a small amount, if one should consider the long stretch of roads we currently have and the huge expansion that we envision shortly, then the absorption level will increase. Any amount of carbon dioxide absorbed, sequestered or converted to oxygen by plants can contribute towards its reduction and can mitigate the effects of climate change. Also, it will help with cooler air in the environment thereby reducing the urban heat island effect.
Trees along the median also reduce the glare from the traffic flowing in the opposite direction which can further reduce accidents on the roadways. Moreover, having trees along the medians can provide jobs for many individuals and build capacity in horticulture and landscaping. Therefore, it is prudent that we reconsider covering the medians with clay bricks and deliberate on the aforementioned benefits that can be derived from planting trees along the medians.
Regards,
S. Jaikishun
