A total of 24 individuals were arrested in Mizoram for blocking National Highway 306, the state’s key lifeline route, in protest against its poor condition. The blockade, which took place on Monday, disrupted traffic for several hours and drew attention to the deteriorating state of one of the most crucial highways connecting the state to the rest of the country. The protestors, mostly local residents and transport workers, demanded urgent repair work, claiming that the worsening road surface had led to frequent accidents and transport delays.
According to officials, the Mizoram highway protest was organized near Pukpui village, about 8 km from Lunglei. Police intervened after several hours of road blockage that halted both passenger and goods vehicles. District authorities later confirmed that the arrested individuals were taken into custody for unlawful assembly and obstruction of national infrastructure.
Read More: PM Modi Cancels Malaysia Trip for ASEAN Summit
Citizens demand immediate road repairs
Residents of Lunglei and nearby villages have been complaining for months about the unsafe road conditions along NH-306. Heavy monsoon rains and poor maintenance have left large sections filled with potholes, making travel difficult and risky. Locals said that despite repeated appeals to the Public Works Department, no major repair work has been undertaken. Many commuters and traders rely on the highway daily for essential supplies and trade activities, making its maintenance vital for the local economy.
“We are not against the government, but our patience has run out,” said a protestor. “Vehicles break down regularly, and ambulances face trouble reaching hospitals in time. If this continues, our lives and livelihoods will be at stake.”
The Mizoram highway protest received widespread sympathy on social media, where residents shared photos of the damaged road. Several users criticized the government for its slow response to the ongoing infrastructure crisis.
Police justify arrests, call blockade a disruption
Lunglei Superintendent of Police C. Lalzahngova said that while people have the right to protest, blocking a national highway creates serious public inconvenience. “We had to act after hours of failed negotiation,” he explained. “Emergency vehicles were stranded, and essential supplies could not reach their destinations. We urged the protestors to disperse peacefully, but they refused, leading to arrests.”
The arrested individuals were booked under sections of the Indian Penal Code related to unlawful assembly and obstruction of public movement. Police said they are verifying whether any damage occurred to government property during the blockade.
District officials added that the state government is aware of the public concern and is working on measures to improve the road. They urged residents to remain patient while funds are mobilized for repairs.
Government promises quick intervention
Mizoram’s Public Works Department (PWD) issued a statement acknowledging the poor condition of NH-306 and confirmed that road repair proposals have been submitted to the Centre for approval. A senior PWD engineer said the project includes resurfacing, drainage improvement, and slope stabilization to prevent landslides.
“The highway is crucial for connecting Aizawl with southern districts and neighboring states,” the official said. “We have prioritized this project and are waiting for the required clearances to begin full-scale work.”
Chief Minister Lalduhoma also took note of the Mizoram highway protest and directed officials to assess the extent of damage along the route. He stated that while public frustration is understandable, blocking national infrastructure affects essential movement and should be avoided. “We are committed to fixing the issue as soon as possible,” he said.
Economic impact of damaged highway
The NH-306 serves as a vital link for transportation between Mizoram and Assam, making it essential for trade and supply chains. Due to the road’s poor state, transportation costs have increased as vehicles take longer routes to avoid damaged stretches. Transport unions in Lunglei and Saitual have reported losses in business and rising vehicle maintenance expenses.
Local businesses, especially in rural areas, said the poor condition of NH-306 has disrupted the movement of agricultural produce and essential goods. Some truck drivers claimed they avoid the route altogether due to the high risk of accidents. “We cannot afford the frequent damage caused to our vehicles,” one transporter said. “Until the highway is fixed, our business will continue to suffer.”
Public voices grow stronger
While the arrests have stirred debate, the Mizoram highway protest has drawn national attention to the state’s crumbling road infrastructure. Civil society groups have urged the government to engage with affected communities before taking coercive action. Some opposition leaders accused the administration of neglecting rural connectivity and called for a transparent timeline for repair works.
Observers believe that the protest reflects a larger frustration over infrastructure delays in northeastern states. Poor roads not only hamper trade but also restrict emergency and educational access for remote villages.
Outlook
The Mizoram highway protest underscores the urgent need for sustainable infrastructure in the region. While authorities have promised swift repair work, residents remain skeptical due to years of unfulfilled assurances. For now, the focus lies on whether the government can deliver timely improvements to NH-306 and restore public trust.
Read More: Tripura Bans Pig Transport Without Approval Amid Disease Concerns