Lalduhoma opens strategic Lengtekai Bridge over Tlawng River
AIZAWL: Chief Minister Lalduhoma Tuesday inaugurated the Lengtekai bridge over the Tlawng River, a major infrastructure asset built under funding from the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways at a cost of ₹43.83 crore.
Officially named the Faith Bridge, the structure measures 100 meters in length, 7.5 meters in width and 1.5 meters footpath on both sides is designed to carry loads up to 385 metric tons significantly improving transport safety and capacity in the region.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Chief Minister recounted the challenges encountered during the bridge launching phase in December 2024, when pulley failure caused a major delay. After months of renewed technical preparation, the launching was attempted again in April 2025 and the structure was successfully positioned without incident. Subsequent finishing works, including approach roads, were completed in September 2025, enabling today’s formal opening.
Highlighting the bridge’s strategic value, he noted that it serves as a vital corridor for Mamit district, which is home to around 85,000 people across roughly 90 villages (Census 2011). The district has strong agricultural potential, including rubber cultivation initiatives under the state’s Chief Minister Rubber Mission. The route connects Mizoram with Tripura and Bangladesh, supports the transport of locally valued Langkaih river sand resources, provides access to Lengpui Airport, and serves institutions such as National Institute of Technology Mizoram. The Mamit–Bairabi corridor, he added, will continue to gain importance as regional connectivity expands.
Reiterating the government’s guiding principle of completing works on time with quality, the Chief Minister observed that Mizoram’s road density — currently about 46.37 km per 100 sq km — remains significantly below the national average. Accelerating infrastructure growth therefore remains a priority.
He expressed appreciation to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and the central government for their continued cooperation and responsiveness to the state’s needs.
The bridge was constructed by Poddar Infra Tech with design consultancy from Force Structural Engineering Pvt Ltd, proof consultancy by Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, and safety oversight by Engineering Project Consultants.
Strict quality assurance protocols were maintained throughout construction. An on-site laboratory conducted continuous testing of materials including aggregates, sand sourced from Assam. The steel bridge components were fabricated in Rourkela and transported in sections for assembly. Specialized carbon steel tension rods manufactured in Thailand were used for the hanger system. Upon completion, comprehensive load testing confirmed the bridge’s operational safety and capacity for all classes of vehicles.