Quick Update: NHAI has introduced India’s first wildlife-safe road on NH-45, passing through the Madhya Pradesh forest corridor, aiming to reduce animal accidents and improve road safety.
NHAI Introduces India’s First Wildlife-Safe Road on NH-45
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has taken a significant step towards safer infrastructure by launching India’s first wildlife-safe road. The initiative has been implemented on a stretch of NH-45 that passes through the Madhya Pradesh forest corridor, an area known for frequent wildlife movement.
What Happened and Where
The project was introduced recently on NH-45, a key highway connecting important regions of Madhya Pradesh. This stretch passes through dense forest zones where animal crossings are common, often leading to accidents involving vehicles and wildlife.
NHAI’s latest update confirms the use of a new road design feature called table-top red marking, which visually alerts drivers and encourages them to slow down while passing through sensitive forest areas.
What Makes This Road Wildlife-Safe
The standout feature of this project is the table-top red marking on the road surface. These markings are raised and clearly visible, especially during daylight and low-light conditions. The design helps reduce vehicle speed without relying only on signboards.
According to officials, the markings act as a physical and visual cue for drivers, making them more cautious while driving through the Madhya Pradesh forest corridor.
Official Response and Government Push
NHAI officials have stated that the goal is to balance development with environmental responsibility. The wildlife-safe road is part of a broader effort to reduce animal fatalities and make highways safer for both humans and animals.
Government agencies are closely monitoring the response to this initiative, and similar designs may be introduced on other highways that pass through forested regions.
Impact on Daily Life and Travel
For daily commuters and long-distance travellers, the change means slightly slower speeds in forest zones but improved overall safety. Reduced accident risk also means fewer traffic disruptions caused by wildlife crossings.
Local communities have largely welcomed the move, seeing it as a practical solution rather than restrictive regulation.
Why This Matters Now
With expanding road networks across India, conflicts between highways and wildlife habitats are increasing. NHAI introduces India’s first wildlife-safe road at a time when sustainable infrastructure is becoming a priority.
If successful, this project could influence future highway planning across the country.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Highway rules, markings, and safety measures may change based on official guidelines and regional requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is India’s first wildlife-safe road?
It is a specially designed highway stretch on NH-45 using table-top red marking to reduce wildlife accidents.
Where is this road located?
The road passes through the Madhya Pradesh forest corridor.
Why did NHAI introduce this feature?
To improve safety for animals and drivers in forest areas with frequent wildlife crossings.
Will this design be used on other highways?
If effective, NHAI may consider using similar designs on other forest routes.
