As the monsoon season approaches, the Member of Parliament from Mizoram has raised a strong appeal to the central government, urging it to expedite repair and maintenance work on the state’s deteriorating highways. The call comes amid growing concerns over the impact of heavy rainfall on the already fragile road infrastructure, which serves as a vital lifeline for Mizoram and other northeastern states.
The MP, C. Lalrosanga, highlighted the urgency of the situation during a recent session in Parliament. Addressing the pressing issue, he stated that several key highways in Mizoram are in a severely damaged condition, and any further delay in repair could pose a serious threat to both commuters and the state’s economy. Given the geographical terrain of Mizoram, where landslides and road blockages are common during the monsoon, timely intervention is not just a necessity—it is a matter of safety and accessibility.
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Mizoram, like other northeastern states, heavily depends on road connectivity for the movement of goods, services, and people. The state’s hilly landscape makes air and rail transport limited, thereby placing extra pressure on its highways. According to Lalrosanga, several stretches of National Highway 54 (now renamed NH-306), which connects Aizawl with Silchar in Assam, have developed cracks, potholes, and landslide-prone sections. If not repaired promptly, these roads could become impassable during heavy rains, isolating large parts of the state.
The MP’s appeal also included a demand for immediate release of central funds to speed up the ongoing repair work. He mentioned that the state government has already submitted proposals and estimates to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. However, the delay in fund allocation has stalled progress, causing public frustration and logistical difficulties.
Local residents and transporters have also voiced their concerns, stating that the poor condition of roads is affecting daily life and commercial activities. Truck drivers, who are crucial in supplying essential goods to remote areas, face increased risks due to unpredictable road conditions. The delay in road maintenance also threatens agricultural supply chains, which depend on timely transportation to markets within and outside the state.
In his speech, Lalrosanga emphasized the importance of pre-monsoon preparedness in regions like Mizoram, which receive heavy rainfall from June to September. He pointed out that lack of action now could lead to larger expenditures later, as repairing roads after the monsoon could involve more extensive reconstruction work. He urged the Centre to consider Mizoram’s vulnerability and treat the matter with utmost priority.
This appeal is part of a broader concern regarding infrastructure in Northeast India, where poor road connectivity continues to hinder development and integration with the rest of the country. Experts believe that strategic investment in highways, bridges, and landslide prevention systems is essential for the sustainable development of the region. With the central government pushing the “Act East” policy, improving roads in the Northeast becomes even more crucial, as it facilitates trade and strategic access to Southeast Asia.
The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has assured that it is looking into the matter. Officials have indicated that tenders for some repair works have already been floated and that the Centre remains committed to improving road infrastructure in Mizoram and other northeastern states. However, the effectiveness of these assurances will depend on how quickly actions follow words.
As the countdown to the monsoon begins, residents of Mizoram are hopeful that the government will heed their MP’s call and act promptly. Ensuring better highway development in Mizoram will not only boost the local economy but also strengthen regional connectivity, safety, and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
The demand by Mizoram’s MP to accelerate Mizoram highway repair efforts ahead of the monsoon is both timely and necessary. With heavy rains set to lash the region soon, any delay in action could lead to disastrous consequences. Swift central intervention will go a long way in preventing monsoon road damage and ensuring safer travel and transport for the people of Mizoram.
