Alwar Six-Lane Highway Project to Feature 23 Animal Underpasses

To ensure a balance between infrastructure development and wildlife conservation, the 86-km-long, six-lane highway between Paniyala Mod in Kotputli and Barodamev in Alwar will include 23 animal underpasses for the safe movement of leopards, tigers, and other wildlife.

The ₹1,600 crore project, planned by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), will enhance connectivity between Rajasthan and Chandigarh, linking directly to the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. Construction began in March 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2026.

A project official stated that about 15% of the highway construction is complete, with earth filling underway for a 25-30 km stretch. Land acquisition for nearly 60 km of the total 86 km has already been finalized.

As the highway passes through Alwar’s forested areas and Sariska Tiger Reserve, the underpasses will facilitate wildlife movement across a 15-km stretch between Mator and Ulaheri. Sariska is home to over 50 leopards, tigers, and other species such as chital, sambhar, and jackals.

A senior official highlighted the integration of 23 animal underpasses and 46 vehicle underpasses, each measuring 10 metres wide and 3 metres high, ensuring both wildlife safety and smooth traffic flow.

While the project aims to improve regional connectivity, it also involves cutting over 10,000 trees. To offset this impact, authorities have committed to planting one lakh saplings with a targeted 100% survival rate. "For every tree cut, three will be planted," an official assured.

ET