The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has launched ‘Arogya Van,’ a new initiative to develop thematic plantations of medicinal trees on vacant land along National Highways. The project aims to boost biodiversity and ecosystem resilience by creating habitats for pollinators and birds while promoting traditional knowledge like Ayurveda.
In its initial phase, NHAI will plant approximately 67,462 trees across 17 sites in states including Maharashtra, Haryana, and Tamil Nadu. A total of 36 species- such as neem, amla, and jamun have been selected based on local climates. These “living repositories” will be strategically placed near toll plazas and interchanges to maximize public visibility.
To ensure long-term sustainability, the authority has identified 188 hectares for further planting during the upcoming monsoon. This shift from standard greening to medicinal-focused forestry is designed to add significant educational and cultural value to India’s highway network.
