Infrastructure development on the land vacated by the Assam Rifles in Aizawl will begin shortly, Mizoram Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Minister K Sapdanga announced in the state assembly on Thursday.
Responding to queries during the question-and-answer session, Sapdanga said work to widen the busy stretch between Treasury Square and Bazar Bungkawn — nearly one kilometre long — will start on March 17.
The road expansion, one of the most anticipated projects in the state capital, aims to ease persistent traffic congestion.
The minister said the project will involve excavating and levelling the existing road to create a uniform width of 50 feet.
The widening of the stretch, considered one of the busiest corridors in Aizawl, is expected to significantly improve traffic movement for commuters.
Sapdanga also informed the House that an advisory committee has been formed to guide the utilisation of the land vacated by the paramilitary force.
The committee includes representatives from political parties, NGOs, church leaders and social activists, and is chaired by Chief Minister Lalduhoma.
Outlining the broader redevelopment plan, the minister said the government intends to transform the vacated land and buildings into a modern public space while preserving elements of historical importance.
Structures such as the Quarter Guard and Loch House will be retained due to their heritage value, while other buildings without historical significance will be demolished.
The Mandir located in the Zodin area will be relocated to make way for the development of a public park as part of the proposed green zone in the area.
ALSO READ: Arunachal Police bust online scam, arrest Assam man for Rs 90,000 fraud
Sapdanga further said a large multi-purpose complex is planned at the site of the former Assam Rifles cinema hall.
The facility will feature a four-storey parking structure capable of accommodating thousands of vehicles.
Above the parking levels, a main auditorium with a seating capacity of 2,000 — to be named ‘Vanapa Hall’ — will be constructed, along with several smaller halls with seating capacities of around 500.
The existing Vanapa Hall near the assembly building will be repurposed for other essential uses once the new complex is completed.
Meanwhile, in a written reply to a query by Leader of Opposition Lalchhandama Ralte, Chief Minister Lalduhoma informed the assembly that the Centre has waived Rs. 5.23 crore that the state government was required to pay to the Assam Rifles as the depreciated cost of buildings and infrastructure vacated by the force in Aizawl.
