India has painted stretches of road bright red near wildlife corridors, and the unusual idea is saving animal lives.

The red paint warns drivers to slow down in zones where animals cross. Early results show a drop in vehicle collisions with wildlife on these stretches.

Roads cutting through forests are a major killer of animals in India. Elephants, deer and big cats are among the frequent victims of speeding vehicles.

Wildlife experts say simple, low-cost ideas like coloured road surfaces can work alongside speed breakers and signboards. The red stands out clearly, even at night.

Conservationists hope more states will copy the idea. Protecting corridors matters because animals need to move between forest patches to feed and breed.

Forest officials say driver awareness is half the battle in such zones. Conservation groups say such low-cost ideas can complement speed cameras and wildlife underpasses. More states are expected to study the results.