No trees cut, no animals hurt: Punjab clears first wildlife corridor as part of Zirakpur bypass project

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Punjab is set to construct its first urban wildlife corridor as part of the upcoming Zirakpur bypass project. The initiative includes a 3-km elevated road through a protected forest area near Peer Muchalla, Zirakpur, allowing for the safe passage of wildlife such as leopards and sambars, while addressing traffic congestion in the region, The Tribune reported.

The decision comes after the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the 19.2-km six-lane Zirakpur bypass project that will connect parts of Punjab and Haryana. Estimated to cost Rs 1,878.31 crore, the project will include an additional Rs 200 crore earmarked specifically for the elevated stretch that will rise above the forested land adjacent to the Ghaggar river.

The Tribune reports that the project, stalled for over two years due to concerns over forest land diversion, found a solution after consultations between the Forest Department and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Instead of cutting through 50 acres of woodland, the elevated road will allow wildlife to roam freely beneath.

A forest official, cited by The Tribune, explained that the corridor connects fragmented habitats, allowing animals to migrate, forage and breed without disruption. These passages, which may include green strips, riverbanks or overpasses, play a vital role in preserving biodiversity. Once construction is complete, further afforestation and conservation measures will be undertaken to strengthen the area.

The new bypass is expected to significantly decongest traffic in Zirakpur and Panchkula, areas that have seen rapid urbanisation and increasing vehicular load in recent years. By building upwards rather than clearing forested land, the project exemplifies a rare but critical blend of urban planning and ecological sensitivity.

Once the elevated road is completed, additional efforts will be made to enhance green cover and maintain the habitat quality of the protected zone.