NHAI to Develop ‘Arogya Van’ with Medicinal Trees Along National Highways

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has announced an innovative green initiative aimed at combining infrastructure growth with environmental sustainability. Under the newly launched ‘Arogya Van’ project, NHAI plans to develop thematic plantations of medicinal trees on vacant land parcels along national highways across the country.

In the first phase, the authority has identified 17 land parcels spread across multiple states including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and the Delhi-NCR region. These identified stretches cover a total area of more than 62.8 hectares.

As part of this phase, around 67,462 medicinal trees will be planted. The selected species include Neem, Amla, Jamun, and Imli, among nearly 36 medicinal varieties chosen based on their compatibility with different agro-climatic zones.

The initiative is designed not just to improve the visual landscape of highways but also to create green corridors that support birds, pollinators, and microfauna. This will help improve biodiversity and strengthen ecosystem resilience along major road networks.

According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, nearly 188 hectares of additional vacant land has also been earmarked for future plantation during the upcoming monsoon season to ensure better survival rates and long-term sustainability.

The project marks a significant shift from traditional roadside greening practices. Instead of regular plantation drives, the focus is now on medicinal flora that carries ecological, educational, and cultural value. The move also aligns with the Government of India’s broader push to promote Ayurveda and preserve indigenous medicinal plant species.

With this initiative, NHAI is reinforcing its commitment to eco-friendly infrastructure expansion while creating awareness about India’s rich medicinal heritage. The ‘Arogya Van’ corridors are expected to become living green repositories along highways, offering both environmental benefits and public engagement opportunities.