New Delhi: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to enhance road safety and address the persistent problem of stray animals on national highways. The new pilot project involves the construction and maintenance of cattle shelters along select highway stretches.
The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), aims to reduce animal-related accidents and create a safer travel experience for commuters. The shelters, ranging in size from 0.21 to 2.29 hectares, will be strategically located to minimize the presence of stray animals on the roadways.
Initial implementation will focus on several key national highway sections, including those near the UP/Haryana border and locations across Rajasthan. These sites are crucial because they have high levels of animal-related highway accidents. “The initiative will be implemented on various national highway stretches, including the UP (Uttar Pradesh)/Haryana border to Rohna section of NH-334B, where shelters will be set up along the Kharkhoda Bypass. Similarly, shelters will be constructed along the Bhiwani-Hansi section of NH-148B at Hansi Bypass, Kiratpur-Ner Chowk section of NH-21 and the Dangiyawas to Jajiwal section of the Jodhpur Ring Road on NH-112,” MoRTH said in a statement.
To execute this multifaceted plan, the NHAI has partnered with Gawar Construction Ltd. This agreement not only covers the construction of shelters but also mandates ongoing maintenance, including the provision of first aid, adequate fodder, water and dedicated caretakers throughout the concession period.
“Under the contract, Gawar Construction Ltd, will build cattle shelters on land provided by NHAI. The concessionaire will also maintain these shelters by providing first aid, adequate fodder, water, and caretakers throughout the concession period, ensuring the well-being of the animals,” the ministry said.
The MoRTH has incorporated corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, ensuring that contractors help provide injured animals with transport and timely medical care within a 50 km radius of each shelter.
Beyond the provision of shelter and care, the agreement with Gawar Construction includes crucial elements focused on animal relocation and legal compliance. The concessionaire will be responsible for safely transporting stray animals to the designated facilities, providing necessary feed and enforcing the provisions of the Cattle Trespass Act, 1871.
