MLA Lalramliana Papuia Inspects Damaged Road in Theiriat, Seeks Government Action

Lunglei South MLA urges coordinated response from key departments and NHIDCL to restore access and ease public hardship

Lunglei : Lunglei South MLA Pu Lalramliana Papuia visited the severely damaged section of PWD Road between Sethlun and Theiriat, affected by ongoing widening work on National Highway-54A, which has rendered the area impassable for both vehicles and pedestrians. During the inspection, he was accompanied by officials from the Deputy Commissioner’s office, Disaster Management & Rehabilitation (DM&R), Public Works Department (PWD), Geology & Mining (G&M), Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), and NHIDCL, along with local councillors from LMC Ward No. X and Theiriat village leaders.

After inspecting the damage, the MLA discussed the urgent need to repair the PWD Road near Govt. High School Theiriat and to expedite the NH-54A expansion. He stressed the importance of setting clear action plans and timelines and recommended that departmental heads coordinate to resolve the crisis swiftly.

PWD officials informed that the road was damaged due to NHIDCL’s widening work and emphasized the need to complete works on the uphill section. NHIDCL has been informed of the issue and has received official communication requesting prompt action. Geology & Mining officials said the NH widening work through Theiriat falls within a Red Zone with unstable terrain, and more detailed assessments are needed before proceeding.

PHED representatives noted that water supply in the area had not faced major disruption, and a tank has been constructed in a safe zone for Govt. Middle School, Theiriat. However, they acknowledged that residents may still face temporary water shortages.

MLA Papuia stated that the Satellite Survey Report confirmed that the ongoing road works are happening on geologically unstable land, and he had already raised the issue with the DM&R Minister. He has recommended that departments including the DC, DM&R Lunglei, PWD, G&M, PHED, and NHIDCL conduct a thorough on-ground assessment and submit a comprehensive report to higher authorities for further action.

He further suggested creating an alternative approach road for public use until the damaged stretch is repaired. The MLA also requested PHED to continue efforts to ensure stable and safe water supply in the affected areas.

NHIDCL officials said they have deployed two JCBs for immediate repair work and are actively working to stabilize and restore the damaged stretch and improve mobility.

MLA Papuia appreciated the local YMA’s effort in creating temporary pathways for public movement during the crisis and urged NHIDCL to consider their model in planning permanent restoration. He also called upon Local Council leaders to continue identifying and addressing issues caused by the road damage so that a comprehensive solution can be implemented.