NHAI plans green barriers to curb pedestrian deaths on NH
Mangaluru: In response to the rising number of accidents and pedestrian fatalities along the National Highway, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to implement a green barrier project on a pilot basis from Aug.
The initiative, which will begin in Uchila, Udupi, aims to enhance road safety while also increasing greenery along the highway. NHAI project director Abdulla Javed Azmi told TOI that the NHAI is moving toward more environmentally friendly practices. "Instead of conventional steel guard rails, we plan to plant dense hedge rows that will act as natural barriers. These will not only prevent pedestrians from crossing dangerously but will also beautify the stretch," he said.
Typically, plants are spaced three metres apart, but for this project, the gap will be reduced to ensure a thick green cover. The dual-row planting will include hedge plants for safety and flowering plants for aesthetics, he said.
In another green initiative, all three toll plazas at Talapady, Hejamady, and Sasthan are now operating on solar energy connected to the grid. Launched about eight months ago, this has significantly reduced operational costs and can also support electric vehicle (EV) charging.
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As part of the 'Rajmarg Saathi' initiative, electric toll patrol vehicles were launched recently near the Hejamady toll plaza to monitor and maintain NH-66 between Kundapur and Talapady. The three vehicles for each toll plaza were converted into EVs recently. These patrol units make four to six rounds daily, ensuring efficient highway management. The concessionaires have been supportive of innovative projects that help in cost reduction.
On World Environment Day, the NHAI also took part in a nationwide plantation drive under the campaign 'Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam'. The NHAI is also working on several green initiatives that are awaiting approval from the authorities. NHAI is providing free left turns at the Nanthoor Junction in Mangaluru.
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