Aizawl: As public anger mounts over the extremely poor condition of NH-306 and NH-06, the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), the apex Mizo student body, on Tuesday issued a warning to National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL). It accused the agency of consistently failing to maintain quality standards in road construction across Mizoram.In a resolution passed during its 59th federal council meeting, the student body expressed dissatisfaction with NHIDCL’s performance, stating that its works were repeatedly found “not up to the mark.” The MZP resolved to continue its efforts to ensure that the agency improves both the quality and pace of its works.In a statement issued in Aizawl, the MZP criticised NHIDCL executive director Virendra Jakhar for his prolonged absence from duty during a time when key highway stretches of Mizoram’s economic lifeline were in a severely damaged state. The student body said it attempted to meet Jakhar on July 17 but was informed he was on leave, reportedly until Aug 7.“It is incomprehensible that the seniormost NHIDCL official remains on leave while the crucial highways remain nearly impassable. His indifference amounts to a direct insult to the people of Mizoram,” the MZP said, adding that Jakhar should not be allowed to return to Mizoram, especially since his deputation term has ended. The students’ body has objected to any extension of his tenure.The roads in question are vital for the transport of food and essential commodities in and out of Mizoram. On March 26, the state PWD officially handed over two key stretches — Bilkhawthlir to Kolasib (Km 70–95) and Kawnpui/Khamrang (Km 118–133) — to NHIDCL.Given the current state of disrepair, the MZP expressed shock that the NHIDCL executive director could remain unresponsive to the plight of daily commuters, especially truckers. The student body has demanded immediate repair of the worst-affected road sections within this month and vowed to closely monitor NHIDCL’s response and take further steps, if necessary.
