Mizoram MP voices disappointment over cancellation of key border road project

Mizoram's lone Rajya Sabha member, K Vanlalvena voiced disappointment after the border road project between Sangau and Saisihchhuah was cancelled. The project was meant to connect south Mizoram's Lawngtlai district with a place near Myanmar's Chin state, according to an official.

Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, during a consultative meeting in New Delhi, Vanlalvena pointed out the cancellation and said that the Rs 66.08 crore project could not be executed due to the selection of Border Road Organisation (BRO) as an executing agency instead of Mizoram Public Work department (PWD), the official said.

Vanlalvena alleged that the road project could not be started due to compensation issues as the BRO planned that the road would cross Pangkhua village.

However, he said, according to the PWD's proposal, the road would not pass through that village to avoid any compensation issues. 

The Mizo National Front MP said that the Sangau-Saisihchhuah road project was given top priority by then chief minister Zoramthanga during the MNF dispensation. 

Vanlalvena said that funds which have been already allocated for the project should not be withdrawn. 

In August, the Centre had informed Parliament that Rs 66.08 crore sanctioned for the road project was withdrawn as the Mizoram government failed to provide land free of cost till June. (With PTI inputs)