India, Sept. 14 -- The Public Works Department (PWD) has issued a new set of standard operating procedure (SOP) with a comprehensive framework for the upkeep of horticulture work of central and side verges along the PWD roads.

"There has been a shortage of staff in the horticulture division because of which the roads division is handling plantation work. There needs to be specific guidelines given to them to ensure that plantations along the roads do not face any damage while regular maintenance is done," a PWD official aware of the development, said.

Officials said that the new SOP is aimed at ensuring systematic execution of horticultural operations along PWD roads focusing on plant health, public safety, aesthetic enhancement and env...