North News
New Delhi, December 24
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a pilot project to construct cattle shelters along national highways, aiming to enhance road safety and address the challenges posed by stray animals. The initiative seeks to create a safer travel experience while ensuring proper care and management of stray cattle.
The shelters, ranging from 0.21 to 2.29 hectares, will be strategically located to reduce the presence of stray cattle on highways. The project will cover various stretches, including the UP-Haryana border to Rohna on NH-334B, Bhiwani-Hansi on NH-148B, Kiratpur-Ner Chowk on NH-21, and the Dangiyawas-Jajiwal section of the Jodhpur Ring Road on NH-112.
To implement the initiative, NHAI has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with M/s Gawar Construction Ltd. The concessionaire will construct and maintain the shelters, providing first aid, fodder, water, and caretakers for the animals. Additionally, the company will deploy cattle ambulances, establish first-aid centers, and build hospitals within a 50-kilometer radius to ensure timely medical care.
NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav lauded the project as a step forward in road safety and animal welfare. “This initiative not only enhances road safety but also fulfills a humane responsibility by addressing the challenges posed by stray cattle,” Yadav said.
President of the National Highway Builders Federation, Dinesh Chandra Agrawal, praised the initiative and encouraged members to support it. Meanwhile, Ravinder Gawar, Director of Gawar Construction Ltd., expressed a commitment to extending the project to other regions and highway projects.
The NHAI has faced challenges due to stray cattle on highways, leading to safety hazards. Previous measures to remove cattle were less effective due to complex issues like ownership identification, transportation, and healthcare. This new initiative aims to provide a holistic solution in collaboration with state governments and private partners.
