Concerns over the potential negative social, cultural and economic impacts of the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) Road and the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line were highlighted at a seminar held today at the Seminar Hall of Government Siaha College.
Speaking as Chief Guest, S. Lalremtuanga, Deputy Chief Executive Member (Dy. CEM), Mara Autonomous District Council (MADC), cautioned that while major infrastructure projects are often associated with development, they can also create serious challenges if not carefully managed.
He warned that the KMMTTP road, in particular, is likely to have a profound impact on the Lai and Mara districts, affecting traditional community life, culture and ethnic identity.
Lalremtuanga stressed that unregulated economic activity and the improper use of the road and railway line could negatively affect many families, leading to social disruption and long-term problems.
He underlined the risk of cultural erosion and social imbalance, especially among the youth, if adequate safeguards and guidance are not put in place.
Calling for coordinated action, he urged the Government, Churches, NGOs and the public to work together to prevent adverse outcomes and ensure that development does not come at the cost of social stability.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Abraham Beirazi Khithie, in his address on awareness campaigns, noted that similar discussions are being held across Mizoram in view of the wide-ranging impact of the two projects.
He pointed out that Siaha district could face significant social and economic pressures due to the expected influx of large-scale economic activity. Without proper preparation and a change in mindset, he warned, local communities may fail to benefit and instead bear the negative consequences of rapid development.
Zomuana, Study Committee Member and Resource Person, delivered a detailed presentation outlining possible adverse effects, including social change, cultural dilution and economic inequality linked to the KMMTTP Road and the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line.
A question-and-answer session followed, reflecting strong concern among participants about the long-term implications of the projects.
The seminar was organised by the Committee to Study the Socio, Cultural and Economic Impact of the KMMTTP and the Bairabi-Sairang Railway Line, Government of Mizoram, in collaboration with the District Administration, Siaha, and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Government Siaha College. Officials and NGO representatives from across Siaha district attended the programme.
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