Aizawl: In response to the worsening condition of the NH-6 highway between Kawnpui and Sairang, the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) Legislature Party held an urgent meeting to discuss the impact of the damaged highway and the hardships being faced by stranded truck drivers and transporters.
The meeting, chaired by PWD Minister Vanlalhlana, was attended by 16 ministers and MLAs. They acknowledged the critical role of NH-6 as a lifeline for Mizoram and expressed serious concern over the poor condition of the highway and its consequences on public life. The party resolved to take immediate measures to address the issue and ease the distress of the public.
The ZPM Legislature Party emphasised the need to continue providing relief and support to the stranded truck drivers and their helpers. They urged the Home Minister to consider deploying additional police personnel to manage the situation more effectively.
Truck drivers stranded near Kolasib have reportedly run out of food and other essential supplies. As a temporary relief measure, Deputy Speaker and Kolasib MLA Lalfamkima announced that ₹3 lakh worth of aid would be distributed from July 27.
Regarding road reconstruction, officials noted that the heavy demand for boulders has delayed the repair process. The PWD has been directed to place senior officials at the affected sites and to source quality boulders from Silchar, Assam, to expedite restoration work.
On Sunday morning, PWD Minister Vanlalhlana held a meeting with top PWD officials to clarify the government’s expectations regarding repair work. The meeting was attended by three other ministers, Dr. Vanlalthlana, Pu F. Rodingliana, and Prof. Lalnilawma, as well as three Advisers to the Chief Minister: Lalmuanpuia Punte, TBC Lalvenchhunga, and Er. H. Ginzalala.
The NHIDCL, which is overseeing the highway construction, was urged to continue working diligently. Given the strategic importance of NH-6 to Mizoram, the Chief Minister has instructed that state funds be utilized if necessary to ensure swift completion of repairs.
During the meeting, it was decided that ministers and MLAs will personally inspect the road every day. Officials from NHIDCL and PWD will also conduct joint site visits to monitor progress and identify priority areas. The PWD was instructed to intensify its role, in coordination with NHIDCL, to minimize further disruptions.
To manage the ongoing crisis, the ZPM Legislature Party has formed a Crisis Management Committee. PWD Minister F. Rodingliana has provided three trucks and a vibratory roller, while Adviser to the CM Er. H. Ginzalala has arranged three JCBs. Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama contributed POL (petrol, oil, and lubricants) support for vehicles involved in relief and repair work.
MLAs Jeje Lalpekhlua and Dr. Lorrain Lalpekliana Chinzah also distributed food supplies to truck drivers on Sunday. Meanwhile, Ministers Dr. Vanlalthlana and Prof. Lalnilawma visited ongoing roadworks and later held a meeting at Mualkhang with NHIDCL and PWD officials. NHIDCL officials explained that the most severe damage was caused by a railway line construction activities, which severely eroded the highway base. Ministers assured that the government would closely monitor the repair work and provide all necessary support.
Also Read | Mizoram wins ‘Emerging Eco & Nature Retreat’ award at national tourism conclave