The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a pilot project to construct cattle shelters along national highways. This initiative aims to enhance road safety and manage the issue of stray cattle, which pose risks to motorists. By establishing designated shelters, NHAI seeks to provide safe spaces for these animals, thereby reducing their presence on busy highways.
Background of the Initiative
The project arises from ongoing concerns about stray cattle on national highways. Stray animals can cause accidents, leading to injuries and fatalities. Previous attempts to manage this issue have faced challenges due to social complexities and ownership disputes. NHAI’s new approach combines infrastructure development with animal welfare.
Details of the Project
Cattle shelters will be built on selected stretches of national highways. These shelters will range from 0.21 to 2.29 hectares in size. The initial locations include the UP/Haryana border to Rohna section of NH-334B and the Bhiwani-Hansi section of NH-148B. The project is designed to offer safe havens for stray cattle, decreasing their likelihood of wandering onto roads.
Partnership and Implementation
NHAI has signed a Memorandum of About (MoU) with Gawar Construction Ltd. This company will construct and maintain the shelters. They are responsible for providing essential services such as first aid, food, and water for the animals. The MoU will remain in effect for the duration of the concession period.
Cattle Ambulances and Medical Care
To further support the initiative, Gawar Construction Ltd. will deploy cattle ambulances. These vehicles will transport injured animals to medical facilities. Additionally, first-aid centres and hospitals will be established within a 50-kilometre radius of the shelters. This ensures timely medical attention for stray animals.
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
The initiative has garnered positive feedback from various stakeholders. The National Highway Builders Federation expressed support, urging members to participate in this humanitarian effort. NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav brought into light the dual focus on road safety and animal welfare, aiming to set a benchmark for future infrastructure projects.
Legal and Social Considerations
The project also addresses legal aspects related to the Cattle Trespass Act, 1871. NHAI aims to ensure compliance with this law while managing stray cattle. The initiative acknowledges the complexities of animal ownership and the need for humane treatment of stray animals.
Future Prospects
NHAI plans to extend this initiative across various national highways in India. By collaborating with other concessionaires, there is potential for establishing more shelters nationwide. This could lead to reduction in road accidents caused by stray cattle.
Conclusion
The NHAI’s pilot project represents a proactive step towards improving road safety and addressing the welfare of stray animals. By integrating infrastructure development with compassionate care, this initiative could pave the way for similar projects in the future.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the impact of stray cattle on road safety in India.
- What are the main challenges faced by NHAI in managing stray cattle on national highways? Explain.
- Comment on the significance of public-private partnerships in addressing social issues like stray animal management.
- With suitable examples, explain the role of animal welfare in infrastructure development projects.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the impact of stray cattle on road safety in India.
- Stray cattle can cause serious road accidents, leading to injuries and fatalities among motorists.
- Presence of stray animals increases the risk of sudden stops and swerves, contributing to traffic congestion.
- Stray cattle can also lead to economic losses due to vehicle damages and medical expenses for injured individuals.
- Road safety measures are often compromised by the unpredictable movement of stray animals.
- Addressing this issue is essential for improving overall road safety and ensuring a secure travel environment.
2. What are the main challenges faced by NHAI in managing stray cattle on national highways? Explain.
- Legal complexities related to ownership and the Cattle Trespass Act, 1871 hinder effective management.
- Social issues, including public sentiment towards stray animals, complicate removal and rehabilitation efforts.
- Previous initiatives lacked success due to insufficient infrastructure for animal care and transportation.
- Coordination with state governments is often necessary, but jurisdictional challenges can delay actions.
- Funding and resources for ongoing maintenance and veterinary care of stray animals pose additional challenges.
3. Comment on the significance of public-private partnerships in addressing social issues like stray animal management.
- Public-private partnerships (PPPs) leverage resources and expertise from both sectors for effective solutions.
- Through PPPs, infrastructure projects can incorporate animal welfare initiatives, enhancing social responsibility.
- Collaboration encourages innovation in addressing complex social issues, such as stray animal management.
- PPPs can increase community engagement and support, leading to broader acceptance of initiatives.
- Shared responsibility can lead to more sustainable outcomes and long-term commitment to animal welfare.
4. With suitable examples, explain the role of animal welfare in infrastructure development projects.
- Animal welfare considerations can lead to the design of wildlife crossings in road construction projects, reducing animal-vehicle collisions.
- In urban planning, creating green spaces and shelters for stray animals can enhance community livability.
- Examples include the establishment of cattle shelters along national highways, as seen in NHAI’s pilot project.
- Incorporating animal welfare in infrastructure projects can improve public perception and social acceptance of developments.
- Projects that prioritize animal welfare can set benchmarks for future infrastructure initiatives, promoting humane practices.
