Guwahati: The Gauhati High Court has sought a clear execution roadmap from a highway contractor engaged in repairing key stretches of the Aizawl–Silchar route, raising concerns over delays and the feasibility of meeting the stipulated deadline.
Hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by the Mizoram Truck Drivers’ Association, a division bench comprising Justices Michael Zothankhuma and Nelson Sailo directed Haryana-based J Infratech Limited to submit an affidavit outlining how it plans to complete the remaining 65 per cent of the work within the proposed timeline.
The contractor, operating under the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd, is responsible for repair works across several critical stretches of the highway, including Sairang Zero Point to Buichali Bridge, New Khamrang to Kawnpui, and Kolasib to Bilkhawthlir. The route is widely regarded as Mizoram’s primary surface lifeline, making prolonged delays a matter of significant public concern.
The PIL, filed through MTDA general secretary Lalhmudika Tochhawng, highlighted the slow pace of work and its adverse impact on transporters and commuters.
During the hearing, the bench also directed NHIDCL to file, within two weeks, a detailed affidavit explaining the mechanisms in place to monitor and inspect the contractor’s progress. The court further sought clarification on whether limestone rocks were being used in the construction process.
In addition, J Infratech Limited has been instructed to address the same issue in its affidavit. Although the company has indicated that it aims to complete the project by April 2026, only about 35 per cent of the work has been completed so far, prompting judicial scrutiny over the pace and planning of the project.