A distinctive red-chequered highway has been introduced in Madhya Pradesh, combining infrastructure development with wildlife protection along a crucial forest stretch. The 11.96-km Hiran–Sindoor section of National Highway 45, connecting Bhopal and Jabalpur, passes through the sensitive Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary and the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.
To ensure safe wildlife movement, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has constructed 25 dedicated underpasses across this 12-km corridor, enabling animals to cross beneath the roadway without disrupting natural habitats. An eight-foot-high iron fence runs along both sides of the highway, although a few sections reportedly continue to witness accident risks.
Red-Chequered Markings for Speed Control
The most striking feature of this upgraded stretch is the red table-top chequered pattern extending across nearly the entire length. Slightly elevated and textured, these markings alert motorists to the wildlife-rich zone and compel vehicles to slow down. Red, chosen for its higher visual impact and longer wavelength, serves as a more effective warning than yellow or white.
Addressing Collision Risks
Species such as deer, jackals, sambar, and even tigers frequently traverse the area. These interventions form part of NHAI’s broader Green Highways initiative under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ 2015 Green Highways Policy.
While national collision data remains limited, available figures highlight the urgency:
- In Punjab, 53% of animal-vehicle collision fatalities occur due to direct crashes.
- In Madhya Pradesh, 237 collisions and 94 animal deaths have been recorded in the past two years.
Learning from Global Best Practices
India’s approach mirrors international models of eco-sensitive road design.
- Canada’s Banff National Park incorporated fencing, underpasses, and overpasses during expansion of the Trans-Canada Highway to reduce wildlife accidents.
- The Netherlands, a pioneer in wildlife crossings, now has more than 600 ecoducts, including the 800-m-long Natuurbrug Zanderij Crailoo.
As per the project report, the reclassified wildlife zones and improved connectivity are also expected to stimulate tourism and local revenue, positioning this corridor as a benchmark for nature-inclusive infrastructure.
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