NHAI signs MoU with Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

Tags: Environment National News

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

An Overview of the News

• The objective of the MoU is to improve the entry process for vehicles entering the forest area by facilitating a seamless and efficient system.

• The initiative proposes a FASTag based payment system at forest entry points to avoid long queues and delays.

• The benefit of collection of Ecosystem Management Coordination Fee through FASTag will be extended to various entry points of the Tiger Reserve.

• The partnership between the Highways Management Company of India Limited and the Forest Department is an important step towards promoting sustainable tourism and conserving natural resources.

• This partnership will help curb vehicular emissions at forest entry points, thereby contributing to environmental protection.

About National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)

• It is an independent organisation established in 1995 by the Government of India.

• NHAI manages and maintains a vast network of more than 50,000 km of National Highways across India, which represents about 40% of the total length of National Highways in the country.

• NHAI is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the quality of National Highways in India and ensuring their smooth operation for the benefit of road users.

• As a nodal agency of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, NHAI plays a vital role in formulating policies related to highways and implementing them effectively.

Establishment - 1988

Headquarters - New Delhi

Sector - Indian National Highway System

Objective - Development and maintenance of National Highways

Parent Agency - Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of India

About Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve

• The Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, located in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, is the largest tiger reserve in India, covering a total area of 3,728 km (1,439 sq mi).

• It was established in 1983.

• The tiger reserve is spread over five districts, which are Nandyal, Prakasam, Palnadu, Nalgonda and Mehboob Nagar.

• The tiger reserve is located inside the Nallamala forest area, which is known for its rich biodiversity and diverse flora and fauna.