The Mizoram government has announced plans to launch a helicopter service between Aizawl and Churachandpur in Manipur, a move aimed at improving connectivity and easing travel for people in the region. Chief Minister Lalduhoma revealed the plan during a meeting with leaders of the Hmar Students’ Association (HSA) from Mizoram, Assam, and Manipur on Monday. Speaking at the meeting, Lalduhoma said that apart from the helicopter service, the state government also intends to construct a Mizoram House in Churachandpur. This facility, he explained, will serve as a home for Mizos visiting the area and as a symbol of closer ties with the Hmar, Kuki, and Zomi communities living in Manipur.
Connectivity between Mizoram and southern Manipur has long been a concern. After the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023 between Meiteis and Kukis, Aizawl became a critical transit hub for residents of Churachandpur and Pherzawl districts. Although the Manipur government runs a helicopter service on this route, officials admitted that the flights have become irregular, leaving travelers with limited options.The proposal for Mizoram’s own helicopter link is being viewed as a step to address these gaps while strengthening ethnic and historical bonds. The Hmar, Kuki, and Zomi communities of Manipur share close cultural ties with the Mizos, and the initiative is seen as part of broader efforts to reinforce these long-standing connections.
During the discussions, HSA leaders expressed gratitude to the Mizoram government for building a Bailey bridge over the Tuivai river, which has significantly improved road access between Aizawl and the districts of Pherzawl and Churachandpur. The bridge, inaugurated by Lalduhoma in February this year, replaced a structure that had collapsed more than two decades ago. On Monday, the HSA delegation also met Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama, Sports Minister Lainghinglova Hmar, and opposition MLA Robert Romawia Royte, a former minister. Talks focused on preparations for the HSA general assembly and the upcoming Sikpui festival, scheduled for December at Saipum in Kolasib district of Mizoram.
