Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has roped in Wildlife Institute of India (WII) to conduct efficacy study of wildife mitigation measures taken during construction of Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Mahamarg. Bilal Habib, Scientist E, Department of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, WII, confirmed this. WII had previously done a study and had recommended various wildlife mitigation measures during construction of Samruddhi Mahamarg. “Now, we will be assessing the efficacy of measures. We will install cameras at overpasses and underpasses and study the behaviour of wild animals vis-a-vis crossing of the expressway is concerned. Once the study is conducted, we will submit our report,” he told ‘The Hitavada’.

 

A memorandum of understanding was signed between MSRDC and WII in this regard. There are total nine overpasses and 17 underpasses on the Nagpur-Mumbai expressway to ensure safe movement of wildlife. Earlier also, MSRDC had appointed WII to suggest wildlife mitigation measures. The WII had submitted its report. Accordingly, MSRDC had proposed total 100 wildlife mitigation measures. The overpasses and underpasses for the movement of wildlife have been constructed with permission, and as per the guidance, of Forest Department. At locations important for movement of wildlife, sound barriers have been installed. At the accident-prone locations, chain-link fencing is being erected. Some measures have been taken already, and work on some is in progress, said an official of MSRDC. However, to assess the efficacy of wildlife mitigation measures taken, WII has been reappointed to conduct the study. The behaviour of wild animals -- whether or not they cross the expressway directly or use underpass or overpass -- will be studied. If animals are not using underpass or overpass to cross Samruddhi Mahamarg, reasons behind such behaviour also shall be studied.