The Green Highways Policy is transforming India's road infrastructure by mandating tree plantation along all national highways. According to NHAI, over 500 lakh trees have been planted along national highways since 2016, with a target of 1,000 lakh by 2030. The policy requires 1 percent of highway project costs to be allocated for green cover, amounting to approximately 2,000 crore rupees annually. This guide covers the Green Highways Policy, its implementation and environmental impact in 2026.
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Green Highways Policy Details
The policy, launched in 2015, mandates tree plantation along both sides of all national highways. Native species are preferred including neem, peepal, banyan, arjuna and jamun. The 1 percent project cost allocation is managed by NHAI's Green Highways Division. Plantation is done by agencies selected through competitive bidding and maintained for 5 years.
Plantation Progress
| Year | Trees Planted | Km Covered | Survival Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 50 lakh | 5,000 | 60 percent |
| 2020 | 200 lakh | 15,000 | 70 percent |
| 2024 | 400 lakh | 25,000 | 78 percent |
| 2026 | 500 lakh | 32,000 | 80 percent |
| 2030 (target) | 1,000 lakh | 50,000 | 85 percent |
Green Highways vs Traditional Highways
| Feature | Green Highway | Traditional Highway |
|---|---|---|
| Tree cover | Both sides, native species | None or minimal |
| Air pollution | 40 percent lower near road | High |
| Noise reduction | 5-10 dB | None |
| Soil erosion | Prevented | Common |
| Driver fatigue | Reduced (greenery) | Higher |
| Maintenance cost | 2 percent extra | Baseline |
Environmental Impact
The 500 lakh trees planted sequester approximately 5 million tonnes of CO2 annually. Tree cover reduces local temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius near highways, lowering tarmac temperature and extending road life. The green corridors also provide habitat for birds and pollinators. NHAI estimates that completed green highways reduce particulate matter by 30 to 40 percent near the road surface.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Green Highways Policy?
A policy mandating tree plantation along all national highways, with 1 percent of project costs allocated for green cover.
How many trees have been planted?
Over 500 lakh trees have been planted along 32,000 km of national highways as of 2026.
What is the survival rate of planted trees?
The survival rate has improved from 60 percent in 2016 to 80 percent in 2026 with better species selection and maintenance.
How much does the policy cost?
Approximately 2,000 crore rupees annually, funded from 1 percent of highway project costs.
Which tree species are planted?
Native species including neem, peepal, banyan, arjuna and jamun are preferred for their survival and shade.
How do green highways reduce pollution?
Tree cover reduces particulate matter by 30 to 40 percent, local temperatures by 2 to 3 degrees, and noise by 5 to 10 dB.