NHAI staff suspended, dismissed over handling of dead animals on highway

A video circulating online has documented the controversial removal of two dead dogs from a highway in Captaingunj town in Basti district, Uttar Pradesh. The footage allegedly shows members of an NHAI patrolling team dragging the animal carcasses along the road while bound with rope, drawing widespread criticism for the manner of handling.

Following the emergence of the video, the Civil Wing of the National Highway Authority initiated swift action against the involved personnel. The driver of the vehicle has been suspended pending further investigation, while the co-driver and another staff member have been dismissed from their positions.

The incident has reignited discussions about animal welfare protocols and employee conduct standards at highway maintenance operations across the country. The NHAI has not issued an official statement regarding the matter, but the rapid disciplinary measures underscore the authority's response to the public outcry generated by the video.