NHAI undertakes pilot project to prevent stray cattle related accidents on National Highways
In a significant move to enhance road safety, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has initiated a pilot project aimed at addressing the issue of stray cattle on National Highways. This initiative seeks to reduce animal-related accidents while ensuring the welfare of stray animals. By establishing cattle shelters along key highway stretches, NHAI aims to create a safer travel experience for commuters and provide necessary care for stray cattle.
Addressing the Stray Cattle Challenge
Stray cattle have long posed a serious threat to road safety on National Highways. Accidents involving these animals can lead to severe injuries and fatalities for both drivers and the animals themselves. To combat this issue, NHAI has developed a pilot project that includes the construction of cattle shelters. These shelters will range in size from 0.21 to 2.29 hectares and will be strategically located to minimize the presence of stray cattle on highways.
The project will be implemented on various stretches of National Highways, including the UP/Haryana Border to Rohna section of NH-334B and the Bhiwani-Hansi section of NH-148B. Additional shelters will be constructed along the Kiratpur-Ner Chowk section of NH-21 and the Dangiyawas to Jajiwal section of the Jodhpur Ring Road on NH-112. By providing safe spaces for stray cattle, NHAI aims to significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall road safety.
Collaboration with Gawar Construction Ltd.
To bring this initiative to life, NHAI has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gawar Construction Ltd., the existing concessionaire. Under this agreement, Gawar Construction will be responsible for building and maintaining the cattle shelters on land provided by NHAI. The concessionaire will ensure that these shelters are well-equipped with first aid supplies, adequate fodder, and water. Caretakers will be present to look after the animals throughout the concession period, ensuring their well-being.
This partnership not only focuses on the construction of shelters but also emphasizes the importance of animal welfare. Gawar Construction Ltd. will deploy cattle ambulances to transport injured stray animals and set up first-aid centers and hospitals within a 50 km radius of the shelters. This comprehensive approach aims to provide timely medical care to injured animals, further enhancing the initiative’s impact.
A Commitment to Road Safety and Animal Welfare
NHAI Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav expressed his support for the initiative, stating that it reflects the authority’s commitment to creating safer National Highways. He emphasized that the project addresses the challenges posed by stray cattle while fulfilling a humane requirement to care for these animals. Yadav believes this initiative will set a new benchmark for holistic infrastructure development on National Highways.
Industry leaders have also welcomed this initiative. Shri Dinesh Chandra Agrawal, President of the National Highway Builders Federation, urged members to support this noble cause. He highlighted the importance of rehabilitating stray animals and enhancing road safety. Similarly, Shri Ravinder Gawar, Director of Gawar Construction Ltd., expressed enthusiasm for the project and indicated a willingness to extend similar initiatives across other National Highway projects.
A Step Towards Safer Highways
The NHAI’s initiative to establish cattle shelters along National Highways marks a proactive approach to a longstanding issue. By addressing the challenges posed by stray cattle, this project aims to enhance road safety while ensuring the welfare of these animals. Although the root causes of stray cattle movement fall under the jurisdiction of state governments, NHAI’s efforts represent a significant step towards a safer and more humane highway system. As this pilot project unfolds, it has the potential to set a precedent for similar initiatives across the country, ultimately benefiting both road users and stray animals alike.
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