NHAI Releases First Sustainability Report On Environmental Responsibility
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has released its first 'Sustainability Report for FY 2021–22,' which is projecting its objective to achieve sustainability goals and social responsibility, said the ministry in an official statement. The report was released by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, emphasising the number of involved stakeholders, governing structure and the enrolled policies towards the environment.
On this environmental day, NHAI is highly promoting the authority's initiative and plans towards a sustainable future. As per the official Twitter account of NHAI, officials at Headquarters in New Delhi & across various field offices took a pledge to contribute towards environment protection, create awareness & encourage others to adopt environment-friendly behaviour.
The Twitter post read, "With a strong focus on environmental sustainability, promoting economic growth, and expanding the National Highway network, NHAI is paving the way for a greener, more resilient, and inclusive future."
The Sustainability Report underlines the effectiveness of various efforts made by NHAI for environment and energy conservation. From FY 2019-20 till 2021-22 direct emissions were reduced by 18.44 per cent and 9.49 per cent due to less fuel consumption. NHAI continues to work towards reducing indirect emissions as well, by transiting towards clean and green energy sources.
Green House Gas (GHG) Emissions from energy consumption, operations, transport and travel measured in Metric Tonnes CO2 equivalent /km constructed saw a decline of 9.7 per cent in FY 2020-21 and 2 per cent in FY 2021-22.
In addition to sustainable development, the report also highlights NHAI’s commitment to creating inclusive and responsible work practices. Over the last three years, women's employment and employment of marginalized communities at NHAI has increased.
With a performance-based management system, NHAI has successfully promoted/encouraged women's gender diversity and minority employees over the past 3 years with a steady increase in female hiring by 7.4 per cent and a total increase of 3 per cent in the overall workforce in the three financial year.
