Chandrapur MP Calls for Urgent Wildlife Overpasses on Critical Highway Corridor
In a significant move to address escalating wildlife fatalities, Member of Parliament Pratibha Dhanorkar has formally urged Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to sanction the construction of dedicated wildlife overpasses along National Highway 930. This urgent intervention is aimed at mitigating the growing ecological and safety crisis along the sensitive Chandrapur-Mul forest corridor.
Rising Traffic Volume Leads to Frequent Animal Roadkills
The highway, which bisects a crucial forest corridor, has experienced a dramatic surge in heavy vehicular traffic, primarily consisting of coal and cement transporters. This increased volume has resulted in frequent roadkills of protected and endangered species, including tigers, leopards, and bears. Dhanorkar has issued a stark warning that unchecked vehicular speed and escalating traffic density are posing severe threats to both wildlife populations and human commuters using the route.
Permanent Engineering Solutions Over Temporary Measures
During a high-level meeting held recently in New Delhi, the MP emphasized the critical necessity for a permanent, engineering-based solution to this persistent problem, moving beyond temporary traffic regulations or speed limits. She proposed the strategic construction of wildlife overpasses at key stretches identified for high animal movement, ensuring safe and unimpeded passage for wildlife across the hazardous highway.
Citing the Successful 'Pench Model' for Inspiration
Dhanorkar highlighted the internationally acclaimed wildlife overpasses implemented on the Nagpur-Pench National Highway (NH-7) as a proven and effective model. She underscored the principle that infrastructure development and environmental conservation must proceed in tandem, not at cross-purposes. The MP strongly recommended adopting this successful 'Pench model' for NH-930, which would facilitate safe wildlife crossings while maintaining efficient and smooth traffic flow for vehicles.
Call for Expedited Approvals and Inter-Ministerial Coordination
To accelerate this vital project, the parliamentarian called for several administrative actions:
- Expedited approvals and clearances from the National Board for Wildlife.
- Enhanced coordination between the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
- Streamlined processes to secure necessary funding and all regulatory clearances without delay.
Dhanorkar expressed firm confidence that implementing such dedicated wildlife infrastructure would lead to a substantial reduction in human-wildlife conflicts. Furthermore, these measures are seen as essential for preserving the long-term ecological integrity and biodiversity of the Chandrapur region, safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations.
