Millions of trees will transform highways into pollinator havens

National Highways Authority of India is taking a massive step to protect pollinators with the launch of NHAI Bee Corridors. Announced in mid-February 2026, this green infrastructure project shifts highway planting from simple decoration to vital ecological support. Millions of nectar-rich trees will soon line our national roadways, directly backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a Sweet Revolution.

During the upcoming 2026-2027 fiscal year, officials plan to plant 40 lakh trees. An impressive 60 percent of these saplings will be dedicated exclusively to this pollinator project. To ensure bees have continuous access to food, clusters of flowering plants will grow every 500 metres to one kilometre. By selecting regional species like Neem, Mahua, and Karanj—which thrive well in states like Odisha—planners ensure a year-round supply of nectar, preventing the seasonal starvation that often plagues artificial landscapes.

This highway green infrastructure perfectly complements ongoing efforts to expand the honey production boost across the country. Over the last decade, national honey output has surged by 60 percent, driven by initiatives that distribute bee boxes to rural communities. However, habitat loss remains a major hurdle. You cannot sustain a thriving beekeeping farming sector without adequate flowers. By transforming barren roadside stretches into vibrant feeding zones, these corridors solve the critical problem of green deserts.

For agricultural regions, the economic benefits are substantial. Healthy bee populations pollinate essential food crops, which can increase fruit and vegetable yields by up to 30 percent. This natural boost helps local honey farmers increase their income while driving rural economy growth. Furthermore, flourishing roadside habitats naturally filter air pollution and protect biodiversity.

While global cities like Oslo and Melbourne have successfully tested linear ecology networks, India’s project stands out for its massive scale. Success will require careful management. Officials must collaborate with local farmers to reduce toxic pesticide runoff near the roadways and manage invasive weeds that could choke native plants. If properly executed, these vibrant pathways will prove that modern infrastructure can thrive in harmony with nature.