Overpass connecting multiple wildlife habitats opened for one-sided traffic near Ranthambore
Jaipur (PTI): A major overpass along a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway near Ranthambore National Park has been opened for one-sided traffic, aimed at ensuring safe movement of animals and reducing human-wildlife conflict, an official said.
The overpass spans an 11.5 km stretch where special engineering measures have been implemented to allow wildlife and traffic to coexist with minimal disturbance.
At the core of the design is a 3.5 km animal overpass system, comprising five segments of around 500 metres each, along with dedicated underpasses exclusively for wildlife movement.
Constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 900 crore by Larsen and Toubro, the overpass connects key wildlife habitats, including Ramgarh Vishdhari Wildlife Sanctuary, Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, and parts of Kuno National Park, creating a continuous ecological corridor, a company official said.
He said the structures are covered with soil and native vegetation to replicate natural habitat conditions, allowing animals to cross without stepping onto the highway. Sound barriers and high walls have also been installed to minimise traffic noise and disturbance.
Around 1,500 LED lights have been installed to guide motorists through covered stretches, ensuring safety without affecting wildlife movement.
The initiative seeks to address habitat fragmentation caused by highways and reduce accidents involving animals. The project is expected to be fully completed by September 2026, officials added.
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Anekal man kills mother, sister, injures nephew before attempting suicide
Bengaluru: A 27-year-old man allegedly killed his mother and sister, injured his nephew and later attempted to end his own life in Anekal taluk of Bengaluru Rural district, police said.
The accused, Mohan Gowda, is reported to have killed his mother Asha (55) and sister Varshita (34), and attacked Mayank (11), the son of Varshita.
According to police, the incident came to light after Gowda sent a video message to his relatives stating that he would commit suicide. Alarmed by the message, family members rushed to his house.
As the main door was locked, they entered by breaking open the back door. Inside, Asha and Varshita were found dead, while Gowda and Mayank were lying injured with their throats slit.
Both the accused and the injured boy were shifted to a hospital, where they are undergoing treatment.
Police said Gowda had reportedly invested in a chit fund and had taken loans. He was allegedly facing pressure from creditors. Preliminary investigation suggests that financial stress could be a reason behind the incident.
Bengaluru Rural Superintendent of Police Chandrakanth said Attibele Police reached the spot around 10.30 pm after receiving information. He said initial findings indicate that Gowda was under severe debt.
Police also said that based on the video message, the family may have been under distress due to financial issues. It is suspected that Gowda attacked his family members before attempting suicide.
A case has been registered at Attibele Police Station and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact sequence of events and motive.
(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the state’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416.)
