468/2026-2027

New Delhi, October 17: Mizoram’s Minister for Disaster Management and Rehabilitation, Prof. Lalnilawma, held a high-level meeting with Dr. K. P. Mahadevaswamy, Chairman and Managing Director of NBCC (India) Limited, at Mizoram House, New Delhi, on Friday to explore technical cooperation for landslide mitigation and disaster-resilient infrastructure in the State.

During the meeting, Prof. Lalnilawma highlighted the recurring landslides in Mizoram, particularly during the monsoon season, which pose serious threats to human lives, roads, public infrastructure, habitations and essential connectivity.

The Minister emphasised the need for a comprehensive, scientific and long-term approach to landslide risk reduction, stressing that efforts should go beyond temporary restoration and post-disaster interventions to ensure lasting protection for vulnerable communities and critical infrastructure.

Discussions focused on the possible use of NBCC’s technical expertise in landslide hazard mapping, geological and geotechnical surveys, slope stability assessments, identification of vulnerable locations and preparation of site-specific mitigation plans. Modern engineering solutions, including retaining walls, gabion structures, soil nailing, rock bolting, slope stabilisation and improved drainage systems, were also explored.

The National Landslide Risk Mitigation Programme (NLRMP) was another key area of discussion, with emphasis on preparing technically sound and sustainable mitigation proposals for priority landslide-prone areas in Mizoram.

Pu Sushil Singh, IAS, Secretary of the Disaster Management and Rehabilitation Department, briefed the meeting on the State’s disaster situation, ongoing mitigation initiatives, operational challenges and measures being undertaken to strengthen disaster preparedness and resilience.

Dr. Suman Kumar, Director (Commercial), NBCC, Shri Sanjay Kumar and other senior and technical officials of the organisation also attended the meeting and discussed possible areas of technical cooperation and appropriate engineering interventions.

The discussions were constructive, opening up possibilities for further technical consultations and collaboration between the Government of Mizoram and NBCC.

Prof. Lalnilawma reiterated the State Government’s commitment to pursuing practical, sustainable and scientifically designed solutions to reduce disaster risks, safeguard lives and strengthen the resilience of infrastructure and communities across Mizoram.