Why in News?
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) launched a new green initiative on April 8, 2026, called "Arogya Van." This project involves developing thematic plantations of medicinal trees on vacant land parcels along National Highways.
Project Scope & Scale (Phase 1)
- Area Covered: 17 land parcels spanning over 62.8 hectares.
- Plantation Target: Approximately 67,462 medicinal trees will be planted in the first phase.
- Future Expansion: NHAI has already identified another 188 hectares for the upcoming monsoon season to ensure higher survival rates.
Geographic Reach (11 States)
The first phase covers several states across India:
- North: Delhi-NCR, Haryana, Rajasthan.
- Central: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh.
- West: Gujarat, Maharashtra.
- South: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu.
- East: Odisha.
Tree Species Selected
Around 36 species have been identified based on local agro-climatic suitability.
- Neem & Amla: For high medicinal value.
- Jamun & Imli (Tamarind): For ecological and nutritional benefits.
- Lemon, Gular, & Maulsari: Specifically chosen for traditional healing properties.
Strategic Locations
To maximize public visibility and awareness, plantations will be prioritised at:
- Toll Plazas
- Wayside Amenities
- Interchanges & Cloverleaf Junctions
- Prominent Highway Stretches
Core Objectives
- Ecological: Support pollinators, birds, and microfauna to strengthen ecosystem resilience.
- Educational: Serve as "knowledge hubs" to educate the public about India’s rich heritage of Ayurveda.
- Environmental: Improve air quality and reduce "heat island" effects along road corridors.
- Sustainability: Align with the National Highway Green Cover Index (NH-GCI) for scientific monitoring of greenery.
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