Gadkari Promises Major Highway Boost for Mizoram Connectivity

A senior functionary of the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) said that Lalduhoma's meeting with Gadkari in the national capital on Monday night focused extensively on critical road infrastructure projects.

The Chief Minister reiterated his request to upgrade the Aizawl-Thenzawl road into a National Highway. In response, Gadkari informed him that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently under preparation and that efforts are underway to secure early approval.

The Chief Minister also urged the strengthening of the Mamit-Bairabi stretch of National Highway 6 and Gadkari assured that the project would be sanctioned soon, with both sides discussing the estimated cost involved.

On the Vairengte-New Vervek stretch (NH-306A), Lalduhoma sought improvements. Gadkari responded that approval would be granted once necessary corrections are made to the proposal prepared by the state Public Works Department (PWD).

Regarding the NH-502 stretch from Zero Point to Siaha, which is proposed to be upgraded into a double-lane road, Gadkari advised the state government to explore ways to reduce the high costs associated with land acquisition.

He added that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) would take steps to ensure early sanction once the feasibility improves.

Highlighting connectivity concerns with neighbouring Tripura, the Chief Minister stressed the urgent need for funds to construct the Teirei Bridge and Langkaih Bridge on the NH-108/NH-44A route. Gadkari instructed that revised DPRs be submitted promptly in line with MoRTH guidelines, assuring swift approval thereafter.

Lalduhoma also raised the issue of six key roads that were previously designated as National Highways but have since been neglected following the development of new double-lane alignments. As these roads have not yet been formally handed over to the state PWD, he requested a One-Time Improvement plan. Gadkari assured that if verified as former National Highways, these roads would be considered for resurfacing.

In addition, the Chief Minister proposed the construction of more concrete roads across Mizoram to enhance durability. Gadkari suggested that collaboration with major cement manufacturers could help reduce costs, making such projects more viable.

He also noted that officials from MoRTH and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) are exploring alternatives due to a sharp rise in bitumen prices, which have increased by around 40 per cent. The Union Minister reiterated the Centre's commitment to supporting Mizoram's road infrastructure development, subject to procedural compliance and refinement of project proposals.

The CMO stated that Lalduhoma, during his visit to the national capital, also held a meeting with Union Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, during which minority welfare initiatives in Mizoram were discussed in detail.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister submitted 23 development project proposals focused on the advancement and welfare of minority communities in the state.

Lalduhoma also met V. K. Paul, Member (Health) at NITI Aayog, where discussions centred on Mizoram's broader development priorities, including plans for a proposed Tourism Conclave aimed at boosting the state's tourism sector.

- IANS