Aizawl: Transport Minister Vanlalhlana on Monday flagged off two 21-seater buses, launching a new inter-state bus service connecting Sairang in Mizoram with Churachandpur in Manipur.
Operated by VK Tawna Travels, the service will begin regular operations on October 1 and is expected to ease travel between the two states, particularly for members of Zo communities separated by the state boundary.
Speaking at the flagging-off ceremony at the Transport Office in Chaltlang, Vanlalhlana stressed the importance of unity among Zo kindred tribes living across different hills.
He said Mizoram remained a central home for its kindred communities and expressed concern over travel difficulties faced by people amid the ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur.
The minister expressed hope that the new service would improve connectivity while strengthening ties of brotherhood, harmony and unity between communities in the two states.
Er H Ginzalala, MLA and Adviser to the Chief Minister (Technical), said strong connectivity across sectors was essential for development. He said the crisis in Manipur had, in several ways, strengthened solidarity between people in Mizoram and their Zo brethren in Manipur.
Ginzalala also urged passengers travelling between the two states to exchange positive and constructive practices while upholding Mizoram’s reputation for respect for law and order.
The ceremony was attended by officials from the Mizoram State Transport Authority and Transport Department, along with representatives of VK Tawna Travels.
Siamnunlian Valte, CEO of VK Tawna Travels, briefed attendees on the operational details, while Er R Lalrammawia, Director of the Transport Department, outlined regulatory and logistical aspects of the route.
Under the VK Tawna Inter-State Bus Service, two 21-seater buses will operate daily between Churachandpur and Sairang. The approximately 360-km journey will take around 12 hours, with the fare fixed at ₹2,500 per passenger.
Tickets can be booked online through the VK Tawna Bus Service mobile application.
Also Read: What would make a young engineer stay in Shillong?