India’s first wildlife-safe road opens on NH-45 in Madhya Pradesh
Why in the news
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched what is described as India’s first wildlife-safe road on NH-45 in Madhya Pradesh. The report was published on 17 December 2025.
Key facts
- The treated section is a 2 km ghat stretch within an 11.96 km length of NH-45.
- The road passes through the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, which links to Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary.
- 25 underpasses let animals cross below the carriageway.
- An eight-foot fence steers animals towards the underpasses.
- Red table-top markings, 5 mm thick and applied hot as thermoplastic, warn drivers.
- Speed detection devices and cameras are fitted on minor bridges used as animal crossings.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Highway | NH-45, Madhya Pradesh |
| Total stretch | 11.96 km |
| Ghat section | 2 km |
| Underpasses | 25 |
| Fence height | 8 feet |
About the initiative
NHAI developed the project as part of its Green Highways programme, which promotes sustainable and environment-friendly road infrastructure.
Exam angle
- Note the first-of-its-kind tag, the highway number NH-45 and the tiger reserve.
- Remember the numbers: 2 km, 11.96 km, 25 underpasses.
- Link it to wildlife corridors and mitigation of road kills.