Centre Issues Directive for Wildlife Corridors in Forest Road Projects
In a significant move to balance infrastructure development with environmental conservation, the Central government has mandated all state governments to attach comprehensive animal passage plans for any road construction or expansion projects that traverse through forested regions. This directive aims to proactively address the escalating issue of wildlife-vehicle collisions and safeguard the natural migratory pathways of animals.
Key Components of the Animal Passage Plan
The directive outlines that the animal passage plan must be an integral part of the project proposal submitted for approval. It should include detailed strategies for creating safe crossings for wildlife, such as constructing underpasses, overpasses, and culverts specifically designed to facilitate animal movement. Additionally, the plan must incorporate measures like installing signage to alert drivers, implementing speed limits in sensitive zones, and utilizing fencing to guide animals towards these designated passages.
Rationale Behind the Directive
This policy stems from growing concerns over habitat fragmentation caused by linear infrastructure projects like roads and highways. Such developments often disrupt ecological corridors, leading to increased animal mortality due to road accidents and genetic isolation of wildlife populations. By enforcing the inclusion of animal passage plans, the Centre seeks to mitigate these adverse impacts, promote biodiversity conservation, and align with sustainable development goals.
Implementation and Compliance
State governments are now required to ensure that all new road projects, as well as upgrades to existing ones, within forest areas comply with this directive. The plans will be reviewed as part of the environmental clearance process, and non-compliance could result in delays or denials of project approvals. This measure is expected to enhance coordination between the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Expected Outcomes and Challenges
The implementation of animal passage plans is anticipated to reduce wildlife fatalities on roads, maintain genetic flow among animal populations, and support overall forest ecosystem health. However, challenges such as increased project costs, technical complexities in design, and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of these structures may arise. The Centre has emphasized the importance of stakeholder consultation, including input from wildlife experts and local communities, to address these issues effectively.
This directive reflects a broader shift towards integrating environmental considerations into infrastructure planning, underscoring the government's commitment to preserving India's rich natural heritage while pursuing economic growth.
