India, April 30 -- Protests spearheaded by the Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) have brought traffic to a standstill on two critical routes in southern Mizoram-the Aizawl-Thenzawl-Lunglei (ATL) Road and National Highway 54(A) from Lunglei to Lawngtlai-leaving commuters, transporters of essential goods, and patients in dire straits.

The Lunglei unit of the MZP, the state's apex student body, launched an indefinite road blockade three days ago, demanding the restoration of Rs.44 crore meant for the maintenance of the ATL Road. According to the students, this fund was unjustly diverted by the state government.

"Protesters have set up blockades on two major roads severely disrupting daily life," said Jerome Lalmuankima Hmar, superintendent of police ...