Agartala, Feb 22: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma inaugurated the Tuivai Bridge on Saturday, connecting Mizoram and Manipur, and named it “Unity Bridge.”
Speaking at the event, Lalduhoma recalled the history of the Selling-Tipaimukh road and the bridge. “Earlier, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) maintained this road and built the first Bailey Bridge. However, in 1990, heavy floods washed it away. Mizoram PWD attempted to reconstruct the abutments in 1992, but the work remained incomplete. In 1997, another Bailey Bridge was installed, but floods destroyed it again,” he said.
He added, “Before its collapse, this road was the most important link between Mizoram and Manipur. Even interstate bus services operated on this route.”
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PWD later resumed reconstruction efforts. “To prevent further damage, the abutments were raised by six meters in 1999. Meanwhile, the Selling-Tipaimukh road was upgraded to a National Highway,” he said.
Highlighting the hardships faced by Manipur residents, he said, “They were compelled to rely on Mizoram for essential supplies, as the Sinzawl route was the only viable option.” He noted that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) approved the project. “However, due to financial constraints, we decided to reuse parts from old Bailey Bridges instead of waiting for a permanent structure,” he added.
Lalduhoma said that work on the bridge began on May 9, 2023, following his visit to the site. “I personally inspected the location and instructed PWD engineers to ensure smooth execution.”
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According to officials, on May 10, 2024, a fund of Rs. 500 lakhs was sanctioned. “Given its urgency, the project was executed with dedication, and the bridge was completed within a year,” he said, adding that it was approved on May 2. “After 28 years since its last collapse, the bridge has been reopened under the people’s government,” he stated.
Expressing gratitude, Lalduhoma said, “Having two well-built roads will significantly improve connectivity. I thank the people for their patience and dedicate this bridge to those in Manipur who have suffered hardships.”
He further said, “This bridge is named ‘Unity Bridge’ to symbolize brotherhood.”
PWD Minister Vanlalhlana also addressed the event, stating, “Floods have repeatedly destroyed bridges in the past, making connectivity difficult. Without proper infrastructure, unity among communities cannot be maintained.”
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He mentioned that MLA Lalmuanpuia Punte had stressed the importance of the bridge. “Our government took the matter seriously and ensured its reconstruction,” he added.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Speaker Lalbiakzama, Adviser to the CM Lalmuanpuia Punte, MLA Lalchhandama Ralte, Deputy Speaker Lalfamkima, Forest Minister Lalthansanga, Supply Minister B. Lalchhanzova, MLA RM Chakma, government officials, and people from Mizoram and Pherzawl district in Manipur.
PWD Engineer-in-Chief Lalsangliana Chhakchhuak presented a technical report, stating, “The bridge spans 200 meters, with a 50-meter downstream section and a 250-meter upstream section. It is designed to carry up to 30 metric tons but will initially be limited to 20 metric tons for safety.”
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The event was led by K. Lalthawmmawia, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary, PWD. Rev. Lalhmasawna conducted prayers, while Chief Engineer (Highways) Zoramliana expressed gratitude before concluding the ceremony.
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