Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The history of gardening and landscaping in India is closely linked to its rulers.
Avenue planting (planting shade and ornamental trees systematically along highways and main roads) has been practiced in India since ancient times.
This practice was designed to provide shade and comfort to travelers, merchants, and animals.
Identifying the key historical figures responsible for these early infrastructure and landscaping projects is an important aspect of horticultural history.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate the historical contributions of the listed rulers:
(A). Jehangir:
A famous Mughal emperor known for his passion for nature, gardens, and art.
He built many magnificent gardens, such as the Shalimar Bagh in Srinagar, Kashmir, but did not construct the Grand Trunk Road.
(B). Sher Shah Suri:
The founder of the Suri Empire in northern India, who ruled from 1540 to 1545.
He was a visionary administrator who rebuilt and extended the ancient highway connecting Calcutta (now Kolkata) in India to Peshawar (in modern Pakistan), which is known as the Grand Trunk (GT) Road (originally Sadak-e-Azam).
To improve traveling conditions, he ordered the systematic planting of shady, large-canopied avenue trees (such as Banyan, Neem, and Peepal) on both sides of the highway.
He also established rest houses (sarais) and dug wells at regular intervals along the route.
(C). Akbar:
The great Mughal emperor who expanded the empire and built structures like Fatehpur Sikri, but is not the primary ruler associated with constructing the Grand Trunk Road.
(D). Firoz Shah Tughlaq:
A Sultan of Delhi known for building canals and gardens around Delhi, but not associated with the GT Road project.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Consequently, the ruler who developed the Grand Trunk Road and planted avenue trees on both sides is Sher Shah Suri.