Drop in vehicles on Aizawl streets due to fuel scarcity

Time of India

25-07-2025

The state capital has seen an unprecedented reduction in vehicular traffic since Wednesday, as a severe fuel shortage grips the region.
The
Mizoram Oil Tanker Driver's Association
(MOTDA) has halted fuel transportation from outside the state, citing the perilous conditions of the Aizawl-Silchar highway.
The MOTDA's decision to ground oil tankers since July 19 has left only those tankers already in Assam to supply fuel to the state. Consequently, all fuel stations in Aizawl have ceased the free sale of petrol and diesel, leading to a significant drop in vehicles on the roads, even during peak hours.
The crisis extends beyond fuel, as the
Mizoram Truck Owners Association
(MTOA) reports that over two-thirds of trucks have refused to transport essential goods due to the hazardous state of
national highways 306 and 06
. MTOA general secretary Dina Tlau highlighted the financial and safety risks, stating, "It has become more profitable not to be in service than to transport goods."
Stranded trucks line the highways, particularly at the Kawnpui-Sairang section, exacerbating shortages of essential goods and construction materials. State PWD officials have identified this stretch as the worst, though it falls under the jurisdiction of the National Highway Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).
In response, the Mizoram govt has allocated Rs 100 lakh for emergency repairs, with a newly appointed NHIDCL executive director expected to expedite the process. A Coordination Committee, led by the state PWD secretary, will oversee the repairs, with work set to commence immediately despite monsoon challenges.
The All Mizoram Commercial Vehicle Association (AMCVA) has issued a stern warning, demanding road repairs between July 23 and 30. Failure to meet this deadline will result in unspecified action, with the NHIDCL and Mizoram govt held accountable.
Prominent social worker Ruatfela Nu has raised alarm over the potential for a famine-like situation if the road conditions persist, urging immediate action to avert a crisis.