The colourful highway is designed to slow down vehicles and protect wild animals crossing the route.
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This state now has a colourful highway designed to protect wild animals from accidents. It aims to save hundreds of animals in the coming years.
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This unique stretch is part of the Jabalpur–Bhopal National Highway. Nearly 12 kilometres of the route passes through two major wildlife zones.
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The highway, in Madhya Pradesh, runs through the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve. It also cuts across the Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary.
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Animals like jackals and deer often crossed this busy road earlier. Many of them suffered accidents because vehicles moved at high speed.
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Even large animals like Nilgai were at risk on this stretch. The area slowly became known as a danger zone.
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To fix this issue, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) introduced a tabletop red surface on a two-kilometre section. This raised patch stands slightly above the regular road.
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The coloured strip is five millimetres thick and very noticeable. Its texture makes drivers feel a small jolt when they drive over it.
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That little vibration alerts drivers to slow down. It reminds them that animals may be crossing nearby. (Representational Image)
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This slowdown effect helps reduce collisions and gives animals more time to cross safely. It also makes drivers more aware of their surroundings.
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Along with the coloured surface, NHAI has added twenty-five underpasses. These passages allow animals to move safely underneath the highway.
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The underpasses reduce road crossings and lower the chances of accidents. They also help animals follow their natural routes without fear.
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This combined effort is viewed as a strong step by NHAI. The project shows how smart road design can protect wildlife and save lives.
NOTE – This article was originally published in News 18 and can be viewed here
