Photo Credit: The Tribune
In a progressive move that blends ecological responsibility with infrastructure expansion, Punjab has given the green signal to its first-ever wildlife corridor as part of the ambitious ₹2,000 crore Zirakpur Bypass project. And let’s just say – it’s not just the commuters breathing a sigh of relief; the animals are too.
The planned 30-kilometer bypass is set to ease the relentless traffic clogging the Chandigarh-Ambala stretch. But what’s truly groundbreaking is the inclusion of dedicated wildlife crossings – underpasses and overpasses designed specifically to allow safe passage for animals. This isn’t just a road. It’s a lifeline for Punjab’s wildlife.
Highways Meet Habitats
The concept of wildlife corridors isn’t new—but implementing one in a densely populated, infrastructure-heavy region like Zirakpur is certainly bold. The idea is simple yet powerful: ensure that roads don’t become death traps for animals, and that ecosystems aren’t cut off by concrete.
This step by Punjab places it in the league of states like Uttarakhand and Chhattisgarh, which have already taken wildlife-friendly infrastructure seriously. Take the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, for example, which includes Asia’s longest elevated wildlife corridor—a 12-km stretch through the Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Or the Raipur-Visakhapatnam highway, which boasts 27 animal underpasses and monkey canopies!
Why It Matters
Wildlife corridors are not just fancy green-washing. They’re crucial for:
- Reducing roadkill and human-wildlife conflicts
- Maintaining genetic diversity by connecting animal populations
- Preserving migratory paths of species like leopards, nilgai, wild boars, and more
As urban jungles grow, real jungles shrink. These corridors become bridges—not just physical but ecological—helping animals reclaim their ancestral routes without clashing with human development.
A Model for Eco-Conscious Growth
This move could redefine how infrastructure is approached in India. No longer is it a question of “development vs. environment”—Punjab’s model proves we can have both. It’s not just about moving cars faster, but about ensuring animals don’t become roadkill in our race to modernity.
The Zirakpur Bypass is expected to be a model project, encouraging similar sustainable planning in upcoming projects across Punjab and beyond.
