IN AN effort to strengthen road safety and prevent the uncontrolled entry of cattle onto national highways, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched a new initiative. Under this project, bamboo fencing is being installed at sensitive locations along the Simga–Bilaspur stretch of the National Highway 130 (NH-130) connecting Raipur and Bilaspur. At present, approximately seven kilometres of bamboo fencing is being developed under the initiative.

 

Areas along the highway that witness frequent cattle movement onto the road have been identified for the installation. These locations include Baikoni, Damakheda, Dekuna, Nandghat, Temri, Kirna, Hardikala, Silpahari, and Dheka. According to officials, the fencing will help ensure the safety of livestock belonging to local villagers while also reducing sudden obstructions caused by cattle on the highway. This is expected to minimise the risk of road accidents and improve traffic safety for highspeed vehicles.

 

Mukesh Kumar, Project Director of the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), Bilaspur, stated that field inspections have shown positive outcomes from the bamboo fencing initiative. He said the fencing is proving to be an effective barrier for cattle. Additionally, the bamboobased structure is durable and environmentally friendly, making it a sustainable long-term solution.