Gadkari assures Mizoram CM on National Highway upgrades, road connectivity push
Synopsis
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari met Mizoram CM Lalduhoma in New Delhi and assured support for a string of highway upgrades and bridge projects across the mountainous state. From the Aizawl–Thenzawl road's National Highway push to bridge funding on the Tripura route, the meeting signals a renewed Centre focus on Northeast connectivity — but most projects still hinge on DPR corrections and cost reductions.
Key Takeaways
Nitin Gadkari assured Mizoram CM Lalduhoma of support to upgrade National Highways and road networks during a meeting in New Delhi on Monday, 5 May 2025 .
The Aizawl–Thenzawl road National Highway upgrade DPR is currently under preparation; early approval is being sought.
The Mamit–Bairabi stretch of NH-6 is set to be sanctioned soon; the NH-502 Zero Point to Siaha double-lane upgrade awaits cost reduction on land acquisition.
Revised DPRs for the Teirei Bridge and Langkaih Bridge on NH-108/NH-44A must be submitted before approval.
Bitumen prices have risen by around 40 per cent , prompting MoRTH and NHIDCL to explore alternatives.
Lalduhoma submitted 23 minority welfare project proposals to Minister Kiren Rijiju and discussed tourism development with NITI Aayog's V.
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has assured Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma of comprehensive support to upgrade National Highways and major road networks across the state, aiming to significantly improve connectivity in the mountainous northeastern region, officials said on Tuesday, 6 May 2025. The assurances came during a meeting held at the national capital on Monday night, which focused extensively on critical road infrastructure projects.
Key Highway Projects Discussed
Chief Minister Lalduhoma reiterated his request to upgrade the Aizawl–Thenzawl road into a National Highway. Gadkari informed him that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently under preparation and that efforts are underway to secure early approval. The Chief Minister also urged strengthening of the Mamit–Bairabi stretch of National Highway 6, and Gadkari assured that the project would be sanctioned soon, with both sides discussing the estimated cost involved.
On the Vairengte–New Vervek stretch (NH-306A), Lalduhoma sought improvements. Gadkari responded that approval would be granted once necessary corrections are made to the proposal prepared by the state Public Works Department (PWD). Regarding the NH-502 stretch from Zero Point to Siaha, proposed for upgrade to a double-lane road, Gadkari advised the state government to explore ways to reduce the high costs associated with land acquisition, adding that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) would move toward early sanction once feasibility improves.
Bridge Funding and Connectivity with Tripura
Highlighting connectivity concerns with neighbouring Tripura, the Chief Minister stressed the urgent need for funds to construct the Teirei Bridge and Langkaih Bridge on the NH-108/NH-44A route. Gadkari instructed that revised DPRs be submitted promptly in line with MoRTH guidelines, assuring swift approval thereafter. These bridge projects are considered critical to strengthening inter-state road linkages in the Northeast.
Neglected Former National Highways and Concrete Roads
Lalduhoma raised the issue of six key roads previously designated as National Highways but neglected following the development of new double-lane alignments. As these roads have not yet been formally handed over to the state PWD, he requested a One-Time Improvement plan. Gadkari assured that if verified as former National Highways, these roads would be considered for resurfacing.
The Chief Minister also proposed construction of more concrete roads across Mizoram to enhance durability. Gadkari suggested that collaboration with major cement manufacturers could help reduce costs. He also noted that officials from MoRTH and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd. (NHIDCL) are exploring alternatives due to a sharp rise in bitumen prices, which have reportedly increased by around 40 per cent.
Other Meetings During Delhi Visit
During his visit to New Delhi, Lalduhoma also met Union Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, during which minority welfare initiatives in Mizoram were discussed. The Chief Minister submitted 23 development project proposals focused on the advancement and welfare of minority communities in the state.
Lalduhoma additionally met V. K. Paul, Member (Health) at NITI Aayog, where discussions centred on Mizoram's broader development priorities, including plans for a proposed Tourism Conclave aimed at boosting the state's tourism sector. The Centre reiterated its commitment to supporting Mizoram's road infrastructure development, subject to procedural compliance and refinement of project proposals.
Point of View
Cost reductions, feasibility improvements. That pattern — political goodwill pending procedural compliance — has historically meant long delays for northeastern states. The 40 per cent rise in bitumen prices adds a genuine fiscal complication, but the Centre's suggestion to partner with cement manufacturers for concrete roads could, if acted upon, offer a more durable and cost-effective alternative for Mizoram's terrain. The real test will be whether these assurances translate into sanctioned projects before the next election cycle.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Gadkari assure Mizoram CM Lalduhoma about National Highways?
Nitin Gadkari assured Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma of comprehensive support to upgrade National Highways and major road networks in the state. Key projects discussed include the Aizawl–Thenzawl road National Highway upgrade, the Mamit–Bairabi stretch of NH-6, and the NH-502 double-lane upgrade from Zero Point to Siaha.
What is the status of the Aizawl–Thenzawl National Highway proposal?
The Detailed Project Report (DPR) for upgrading the Aizawl–Thenzawl road to a National Highway is currently under preparation, according to Gadkari. He assured the Mizoram CM that efforts are underway to secure early approval once the DPR is finalised.
Why are the Teirei Bridge and Langkaih Bridge important for Mizoram?
The Teirei Bridge and Langkaih Bridge on the NH-108/NH-44A route are critical for improving road connectivity between Mizoram and neighbouring Tripura. Gadkari asked for revised DPRs in line with MoRTH guidelines before granting approval.
How are rising bitumen prices affecting Mizoram's road projects?
Bitumen prices have reportedly risen by around 40 per cent, prompting MoRTH and NHIDCL officials to explore alternative construction approaches. Gadkari suggested greater use of concrete roads in collaboration with cement manufacturers as a more cost-effective and durable option for Mizoram.
What other meetings did Mizoram CM Lalduhoma hold during his Delhi visit?
Lalduhoma met Union Minister Kiren Rijiju to discuss minority welfare initiatives and submitted 23 development project proposals. He also met NITI Aayog Member V. K. Paul to discuss Mizoram's broader development priorities, including a proposed Tourism Conclave.
