India’s First Wildlife-Safe Highway Launched on NH-45 in Madhya Pradesh

NHAI Introduces Innovative Wildlife Protection Measures on National Highway 45

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has unveiled India’s first wildlife-safe road on National Highway 45 (NH-45) in Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant step towards integrating infrastructure development with ecological conservation. The initiative is designed to minimise animal–vehicle collisions while ensuring smooth highway operations in sensitive forest landscapes.

Strategic Location and Ecological Importance
The project covers a 2-km ghat section within an 11.96-km highway stretch passing through the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve . This corridor also lies close to the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary , an area frequently used by wild animals for movement. Given its ecological sensitivity, the stretch was identified as a priority zone for adopting wildlife-friendly road design.

Table-Top Red Markings for Speed Regulation
One of the most distinctive features of the project is the introduction of table-top red markings on the road surface. Inspired by international best practices such as Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road, these 5 mm thick, hot-applied thermoplastic layers are laid across identified danger zones. Their slightly raised texture alerts drivers and naturally reduces vehicle speed without abrupt braking. The red colour serves as a visual warning, indicating entry into a wildlife-sensitive and speed-controlled zone.

Supporting Infrastructure for Animal Safety
To ensure safe animal movement, 25 dedicated wildlife underpasses have been constructed beneath the highway. Additionally, an eight-foot-high protective fence runs along the stretch to prevent animals from entering the carriageway and to guide them towards safe crossings. Speed detection and alert systems have also been installed to promote cautious driving.

Monitoring and Future Replication
Cameras placed on minor bridges, which double as animal crossing points, help monitor wildlife movement. The initiative aligns with NHAI’s Green Highways policy , and if successful, this model is likely to be replicated across other ecologically sensitive national highways.

Exam-Focused Points

• NH-45 hosts India’s first wildlife-safe road project.

• The project passes through Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve .

• Table-top red markings are 5 mm thick thermoplastic layers.

• 25 wildlife underpasses have been constructed along the stretch.