Mizoram CM Lalduhoma inaugurates Rs 43.83 crore Faith Bridge over Tlawng River, strengthening connectivity with Tripura and Bangladesh. The strategic infrastructure project boosts regional trade, transport capacity, and economic growth in Mamit district and western Mizoram.
In a push toward strengthening regional infrastructure and economic integration, Lalduhoma on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constructed Lengtekai Bridge over the Tlawng River. Officially named the Faith Bridge, the structure marks a major milestone in enhancing connectivity between Mizoram, Tripura, and neighboring Bangladesh.
Built at a cost of Rs 43.83 crore, the bridge was funded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways as part of the Centre’s broader commitment to infrastructure development in the Northeast. The project is expected to significantly boost regional trade, facilitate smoother transportation, and accelerate socio-economic growth in western Mizoram.
Engineering Strength and Strategic Importance
Spanning 100 metres in length and 7.5 metres in width, with 1.5-metre-wide footpaths on both sides, the Faith Bridge is designed to withstand loads of up to 385 metric tons. This high load capacity eliminates the limitations posed by older Bailey bridges, which often required vehicle unloading and were prone to repeated damage due to weather and structural constraints.
Addressing the inaugural gathering, Chief Minister Lalduhoma highlighted the technical challenges encountered during the bridge’s construction. The initial launch attempt in December 2024 was delayed due to a pulley system failure. However, following months of renewed engineering preparation, the bridge was successfully launched in April 2025 without incident. Final works, including the construction of approach roads, were completed in September 2025, paving the way for its formal inauguration.
The Chief Minister described the bridge as a “symbol of reliability and faith,” reflecting its official name and underscoring the government’s commitment to durable and high-quality infrastructure.
Boost for Mamit District and Regional Trade
The bridge holds immense strategic value for Mamit district, home to approximately 85,000 residents across around 90 villages, according to Census 2011 data. The district possesses strong agricultural potential, particularly in rubber cultivation under the state’s Chief Minister Rubber Mission.
The new infrastructure provides critical connectivity to Tripura and Bangladesh, strengthening cross-border trade prospects. It also supports the transport of locally valued Langkaih river sand resources and enhances access to Lengpui Airport. Additionally, the improved road network benefits institutions such as the National Institute of Technology Mizoram, further integrating educational and economic hubs.
Mizoram, a hilly state sharing inter-state borders with Assam, Tripura, and Manipur, and international borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar, has long faced geographic challenges in infrastructure expansion. The Mamit–Bairabi corridor, in particular, is emerging as a critical route in strengthening regional connectivity across the Northeast.
Addressing Infrastructure Gaps
Highlighting the state’s infrastructure challenges, Lalduhoma noted that Mizoram’s road density currently stands at approximately 46.37 km per 100 square kilometres—significantly below the national average. He stressed that accelerating infrastructure growth remains a top government priority to bridge this gap and unlock the state’s economic potential.
The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and the Central government for their cooperation and continued support in delivering critical projects.
Quality Assurance and Advanced Engineering
Strict quality control protocols were maintained throughout the project’s execution. An on-site laboratory conducted continuous testing of materials, including aggregates and sand sourced from Assam. Steel bridge components were fabricated in Rourkela and transported in sections for assembly at the project site.
Specialised carbon steel tension rods for the hanger system were manufactured in Thailand, reflecting the integration of international engineering standards. Upon completion, comprehensive load testing was conducted to confirm the bridge’s structural integrity and operational safety for all classes of vehicles.
A Symbol of Growth and Integration
The inauguration of the Faith Bridge represents more than a physical connection across the Tlawng River. It embodies Mizoram’s broader development vision—strengthening core infrastructure, enhancing inter-state and international trade links, and ensuring safer, more reliable transportation for its people.
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As regional connectivity expands under national infrastructure initiatives, the Mamit–Bairabi corridor is poised to become a vital economic artery. With improved transport capacity and safety, the Faith Bridge is expected to play a transformative role in boosting commerce, agricultural exports, and overall socio-economic development in Mizoram and beyond.
