The Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA) has made significant efforts to improve the green cover on national highways, transforming them into lush green corridors adorned with vibrant flowers. The HMDA’s green initiatives on the 64 km-long Warangal Highway (NH-163) with a budget of Rs.15.04 crore and the 33 km Nanded Highway with a budget of Rs.3.57 crore have greatly enhanced the driving experience for commuters.
In addition to developing greenery and flower-yielding plants along highways, HMDA has also developed central medians that ensure safe and pleasant travel for commuters. The Srisailam Highway (NH-765), Kurnool Highway (NH-44), and Rajiv Road State Highway (SH-1) are some of the stretches where HMDA has taken up multi-layer plantations to further enhance the green cover.
In an effort to enhance greenery along the Warangal National Highway, the State government had requested cooperation from the Centre. However, when the request failed to receive a response, the Chief Minister instructed Municipal Administration & Urban Development (MA&UD) Minister KT Rama Rao to develop greenery on the highways with State government funds. As a result, HMDA has taken up the works, and these environmental conservation measures have gained national and international recognition.
The National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has conducted a study on HMDA’s efforts to improve the green cover on national highways. Additionally, a student from the University of Berlin has researched HMDA’s multi-layer plantation initiative.
The Telangana Ku Haritha Haram programme has also contributed to an increase in the green cover on the Outer Ring Road. Overall, HMDA’s efforts have transformed national highways into lush green corridors, ensuring a safe and pleasant driving experience for commuters.
