Mizoram Chief Minister Chairs Comprehensive Review of National Highway Projects
In a significant development for the state's infrastructure, Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma presided over a detailed review meeting with officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on Friday. The high-level session, conducted in the capital city of Aizawl, was convened to meticulously evaluate the advancement of National Highway (NH) projects across Mizoram, addressing both achievements and obstacles in their execution.
Focus on Progress, Challenges, and Technological Adaptation
The meeting served as a platform to scrutinize ongoing construction activities, completed highway stretches, and the various challenges encountered during project implementation. A key point of discussion centered on the potential adoption of rigid pavement technology, specifically tailored to withstand Mizoram's unique climatic conditions characterized by exceptionally high rainfall. This technological consideration underscores the state's commitment to building durable and resilient road infrastructure.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma expressed his sincere appreciation for the sustained support from Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari. He noted that several proposals submitted by the Mizoram government have received favorable consideration at the central level, highlighting a collaborative federal approach to development.
Detailed Review of Major Infrastructure Initiatives
Officials from both the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) and the state's Public Works Department (PWD) presented comprehensive updates. The review encompassed a wide array of highway improvement works being carried out in various districts, as well as several proposals that are currently pending approval from the central government.
Major NHIDCL projects under the purview of MoRTH that were discussed include:
- Lunglei–Chhumkhum (37.42 km)
- Chhumkhum–Tlabung (37.53 km)
- Pawlrang–Rulchawm section of Tuivai–Keifang (30.41 km)
- Zorinpui–Longmasu (28.24 km)
- Vairengte–Sairang (Package 3 to 8, 90.11 km)
- Aizawl bypass Package 2 (4.6 km) and Package 3 (19.3 km)
The meeting revealed that twenty National Highway projects in Mizoram have already been successfully completed, marking a significant milestone. Furthermore, preparatory works for the Aizawl bypass Package 1 are scheduled to commence shortly, indicating continued momentum in infrastructure development.
Proposal for New National Highway Status
In a related development, the Ministry of Home Affairs has formally recommended declaring the Aizawl-Thenzawl road as a National Highway. This proposal is now awaiting the final approval from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a decision that could further enhance connectivity and economic prospects in the region.
This comprehensive review underscores the Mizoram government's proactive stance on infrastructure development, focusing on sustainable solutions and inter-governmental cooperation to overcome geographical and climatic challenges for improved road connectivity.
