Aizawl: Union minister of state for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Sukanta Majumdar on Wednesday directed the contractor executing the Aizawl Bypass on the western side to complete the project within the stipulated deadline.During a visit to the ongoing construction under the PM-DeVINE scheme, Majumdar also asked the contractor to deploy additional labourers and machinery at the project site.The minister first visited the Sihhmui base camp, where he interacted with officials of the state Public Works Department (PWD) and representatives of RG Buildwell Engineers Pvt Ltd, the contractor executing the project.Officials informed him that 33.61% of the work had been completed and that the 45-km bypass was scheduled to be completed by Jan 16, 2028.The project begins at Sihhmui in Sairang and will terminate at Muallungthu. Majumdar said its strategic importance lay in supporting the planned expansion of Aizawl and easing congestion within the city.He also suggested constructing an additional approach road connecting Aizawl city to the bypass using state govt funds.According to PWD officials, the bypass will provide improved connectivity to Lengpui Airport, Sairang Railway Station, the Industrial Growth Centre at Luangmual, Zoram Medical College and Hospital, and southern Mizoram.The road will also pass near the approach road to Reiek village, one of the state’s major tourist destinations. Officials said the improved connectivity would boost tourism, facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce and create better livelihood opportunities for people in surrounding areas.PWD officials pointed out that the ongoing project did not include tourism-oriented road infrastructure or beautification of the areas surrounding the bypass. They requested that a separate project incorporating these components be considered under the upcoming PM-DeVINE scheme.If approved, the initiative would improve the visual appeal of the bypass and enhance road safety for motorists and tourists, officials said.The Centre sanctioned Rs 500 crore for the project on Feb 10, 2024. RG Buildwell Engineers Pvt Ltd was selected as the contractor, and the notice to commence work was issued on Jan 16, 2026.
