NHAI to Boost Highway Green Cover with Miyawaki Technique

21 Jun 2024 CW Team

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to enhance green cover along national highways using the Miyawaki plantation technique. This method involves dense planting of native species in a small area, promoting rapid forest growth and biodiversity. NHAI aims to implement this initiative across various states to restore ecosystems and support afforestation efforts. The project aligns with India?s commitment to environmental sustainability, focusing on creating micro-forests that absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, and provide habitats for wildlife.

The Miyawaki technique, developed by Japanese botanist Akira Miyawaki, has been recognized for its efficiency in creating urban forests that grow 10 times faster, are 30 times denser, and contain 100 times more biodiversity than traditional plantations. NHAI's adoption of this method is expected to significantly enhance the ecological balance along highways, contributing to climate resilience and reducing the urban heat island effect.

This initiative is part of NHAI?s broader strategy to integrate green practices into infrastructure development, ensuring that highway construction and maintenance do not come at the cost of environmental degradation. By focusing on native species, the plantations will require minimal maintenance after the initial growth period, making it a sustainable long-term solution.

Through this project, NHAI aims to create a network of green corridors that not only beautify the landscape but also serve as vital ecological havens. The success of this program could set a precedent for similar efforts nationwide, reinforcing the importance of integrating environmental stewardship into public infrastructure projects.

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