Henna plants used as green barriers on Andhra Pradesh highway medians
The Lawsonia inermis shrub is being planted along the Nellore-Naidupeta corridor to reduce headlight glare and improve road safety.
Henna plants, known locally as gorintaku, are being planted along highway medians in the Nellore-Naidupeta corridor in Andhra Pradesh, according to The New Indian Express.
The National Green Highways Mission guidelines include the Lawsonia inermis shrub as a suitable option for median plantations. These guidelines favour quick-growing, pollution-resistant dwarf shrubs that can help reduce headlight glare from oncoming vehicles.
NHAI Chittoor region Project Director Shivakumar said the main goal of these plantations is to prevent glare from opposite-direction headlights. He noted that plant selection depends on local conditions and specific landscaping plans rather than a single prescribed species.
A 2026 study involving researchers from IIT Bombay and the University of Cambridge warned that roadside vegetation can become a safety hazard if not managed. Essential maintenance includes regular pruning, height control, irrigation, and keeping median openings clear.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways stated in a February 2026 reply to the Rajya Sabha that such plantations aim to reduce air pollution, dust, noise, and soil erosion. To assist with maintenance, NHAI issued revised compliance guidelines on September 9, 2026.
NHAI reported that more than 3.61 crore saplings were planted along approximately 1.32 lakh km of National Highways over the previous five years. The initiative also incorporates drone-based monitoring.