In a groundbreaking move for eco-sensitive infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has inaugurated India's first dedicated "Wildlife-Safe Road" on National Highway 45 (NH-45). Located in the ghat section of the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (formerly Nauradehi) in Madhya Pradesh, this project challenges the traditional conflict between urbanization and conservation. For Social Work students and development professionals, this initiative serves as a practical case study in Green Social Work and Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) mitigation.
What makes the "Red Road" Unique?
The 2-km stretch near the Bhopal-Jabalpur section utilizes psychological and engineering interventions to protect fauna.
1. The "Red Pavement" Alert System
Unlike standard black asphalt, this road section is painted a vibrant red.
Visual Trigger: The sudden color change acts as a psychological signal for drivers to instinctively slow down.
Tactile Safety: The red markings are "Table Top" speed breakers (raised 5mm). They create a mild vibration (rumble effect) that physically alerts the driver without causing vehicle damage, forcing a speed reduction to 30-40 km/ph.
2. The "Silent Corridor" (Noise Barriers)
Highways usually cause "acoustic trauma" to wildlife, disrupting their hunting and mating calls.
This stretch features Sound-Proof Noise Barriers on both sides.
These barriers block engine noise and headlight glare, ensuring that animals in the adjoining forest are not disturbed by night traffic.
3. Dedicated Animal Underpasses
The engineering includes 25 specialized underpasses along the 11.96 km corridor.
These allow tigers, leopards, and cheetals to cross under the road safely while vehicles pass over them.
Solar-powered cameras have been installed to monitor wildlife movement through these subway.
Fast Facts for Exams (UGC NET / UPSC / MSW)
Project Location: NH-45 (Bhopal-Jabalpur), Madhya Pradesh.
Protected Area: Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve (Sagar, Damoh, Narsinghpur districts).
Key Innovation: Red-colored speed calming surface & Noise Barriers.
Implementing Agency: NHAI (National Highways Authority of India).
Goal: Zero Wildlife Mortality on Highways.
Critical Analysis for Students
While this is a technological marvel, social workers must also consider the displacement of local tribal communities often associated with tiger reserve expansions. A holistic view requires analyzing whether the development is inclusive of the indigenous population residing in the buffer zones.
Discussion Question: Can eco-friendly infrastructure completely eliminate Human-Wildlife Conflict, or is it just a band-aid solution? Discuss in the comments.
Relevance to Social Work & Policy
Why should a Social Work aspirant study a highway project? Because it directly addresses Social Ecology and Public Safety.
| Social Work Concept | Application in NH-45 Project |
| HWC Mitigation | Reduces roadkill (loss of biodiversity) and fatal car accidents (human safety). |
| SDG Alignment | Directly contributes to SDG 9 (Resilient Infrastructure) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). |
| Green Social Work | Demonstrates advocacy for "non-human clients" (animals) and environmental justice |
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