The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) Regional Office in Odisha has planted 520,000 saplings across the state during a four-month greening drive linked to highway development. The initiative combines ecological conservation with efforts to improve the appearance and environmental performance of highway corridors.

The programme includes specialised plantation activities designed to support local biodiversity and wildlife. Under the Arogya Van initiative, 2,500 medicinal plants have been planted at Kunduli in Koraput district along the Raipur–Visakhapatnam Economic Corridor, also known as NH-130CD.

The medicinal plantation includes indigenous species such as Neem, Amla, Harida and Bahada. The initiative is intended to strengthen traditional medicinal biodiversity while creating additional green cover along the highway corridor.

NHAI has also planted 39,337 pollinator-friendly plants as part of efforts to establish bee corridors and support roadside vegetation. The species include Kadamba, Arjun, Spathodea, Patoli and Tabebuia rosea, which are expected to contribute to local pollinator habitats and ecological resilience.

Highway medians have received 87,338 flowering plants, including Bougainvillea, Tecoma, Calliandra and Caesalpinia, to improve visual appeal and expand green coverage. The programme further includes 6,000 bamboo plants and 7,097 community-based plantations across schools, colleges and local community spaces. By extending planting activities beyond highway edges, NHAI is seeking to encourage wider public participation and promote environmental awareness across Odisha.