NHAI Launches India’s First Bee Corridors Initiative

Reinforcing its commitment to sustainable infrastructure, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced a pioneering initiative to develop pollinator or ‘Bee Corridors’ along National Highways. The move marks a transition from ornamental roadside plantations to ecologically driven green corridors aimed at supporting honeybees and other pollinators.

The initiative seeks to address rising ecological stress that has affected pollination services, agricultural productivity and overall biodiversity.

Concept and Ecological Significance

The Bee Corridor will comprise continuous stretches of bee-friendly vegetation, including flowering trees and plants that provide nectar and pollen throughout the year. By ensuring staggered flowering cycles, the project aims to maintain near-continuous blooming across seasons.

Pollinators play a crucial role in food production and ecosystem stability. Declining bee populations have raised concerns globally, as nearly one-third of food crops depend on animal pollination. Roadside plantations offer a unique opportunity to create long, connected habitats that can support pollinator survival.

Plant Species and Implementation Strategy

NHAI will prioritise native and nectar-rich species such as Neem, Karanj, Mahua, Palash, Bottle Brush, Jamun and Siris. The corridors will include a mix of trees, shrubs, herbs and grasses. Flowering weeds will be allowed to bloom, while dead wood and hollow trunks will be retained to provide nesting spaces.

Field offices will identify suitable National Highway stretches and vacant land parcels based on agro-climatic conditions. Flowering clusters will be planted at intervals of 500 metres to 1 kilometre, aligning with the average foraging distance of honeybees and wild bees.

Targets for 2026–27

During 2026–27, NHAI plans to plant around 40 lakh trees along National Highways, with nearly 60 per cent under the Bee Corridor initiative. At least three dedicated pollinator corridors will be developed by field offices during the year.

The initiative aims to align infrastructure expansion with environmental sustainability by enhancing green cover and restoring ecological balance.

Important Facts for Exams

• Pollinators contribute to the reproduction of over 75% of global flowering plants.
• Neem and Palash are native species known for nectar-rich blossoms.
• Honeybees typically forage within a range of up to 1 kilometre from their hive.
• Ecological corridors connect fragmented habitats and support biodiversity.

Strengthening Sustainable Highway Development

By integrating pollinator conservation into highway development, NHAI aims to enhance ecological outcomes while maintaining infrastructure growth. The Bee Corridor initiative represents a model for climate-resilient and biodiversity-friendly infrastructure planning, reinforcing the authority’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible development.