NHAI to Develop India’s First “Bee Corridors” Along National Highways to Boost Pollinator Conservation

In a major step toward integrating environmental sustainability with infrastructure development, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced the development of India’s first-of-its-kind “Bee Corridors” along selected stretches of national highways.

The initiative, announced through a press release by the Press Information Bureau under the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways, aims to support pollinator conservation by planting nectar-rich flowering trees and shrubs along highways.

What Are Bee Corridors?

Bee Corridors are specially designed stretches of roadside plantations that focus on pollinator-friendly vegetation rather than purely ornamental or decorative plants.

These corridors will feature:

• Native flowering trees
• Shrubs that bloom across different seasons
• Continuous vegetation stretches
• Plants that provide nectar and pollen year-round

The objective is simple yet powerful: create safe habitats and food sources for bees and other pollinators while enhancing the green cover along highways.

Why Are Pollinators Important?

Pollinators like honeybees play a crucial role in:

• Agricultural productivity
• Food security
• Biodiversity conservation
• Ecological balance

Nearly one-third of global food production depends on pollination. However, declining bee populations due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use have become a global concern.

By integrating ecological planning into highway development, NHAI is addressing both infrastructure growth and environmental responsibility simultaneously.

Key Highlights of the Initiative

1. Native Species Plantation

The Bee Corridors will prioritize indigenous plant species such as:

• Neem
• Karanj
• Mahua
• Palash
• Bottle Brush
• Jamun
• Siris

These plants are known for their nectar production and seasonal flowering cycles.

2. Large-Scale Plantation Drive

• Around 40 lakh trees are planned to be planted along national highways.
• Nearly 60% of these plantations will support the Bee Corridor initiative.
• At least three dedicated Bee Corridors are expected to be developed during 2026–27.

3. Shift Toward Ecological Infrastructure

Instead of traditional decorative landscaping, the focus will now be on functional plantations that deliver environmental benefits.

How This Benefits India

Strengthens Agricultural Ecosystem

Improved pollinator health supports crop productivity and rural livelihoods.

Enhances Highway Aesthetics

Seasonal flowering trees will improve the visual appeal of highways.

Promotes Sustainable Development

This initiative aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable and climate-resilient infrastructure.

Supports Biodiversity

Creating continuous ecological corridors helps insects, birds, and small wildlife thrive.

A New Model for Green Infrastructure

The Bee Corridor initiative represents a paradigm shift in highway plantation policy. Instead of viewing greenery as decorative, NHAI is treating it as a living ecological asset.

This model could:

• Be replicated across other infrastructure projects
• Support honey production and local beekeeping
• Contribute to India’s climate action goals

The development of Bee Corridors along national highways marks a progressive step toward environmentally conscious infrastructure development. By combining ecological science with transportation planning, India is setting an example of how growth and sustainability can go hand in hand.

If implemented effectively, this initiative could significantly boost pollinator populations, strengthen agricultural productivity, and enhance the ecological resilience of India’s highways.