Aizawl, Mar 30 (UNI) In a significant development, the movement of people and goods between Mizoram and Myanmar has been relaxed at Zokhawthar in Champhai district, bringing relief to residents on both sides of the border.

The Assam Rifles personnel, who had been restricting movement since January 1, are now allowing people to cross the bridge over the Tiau river without hindrance. While Indian vehicles are still not permitted to enter Myanmar without prior permission, coolies are ferrying goods across the border.

Commodities like Nutrela soya chunks, edible oil, and lentils are being transported from India to Khawmawi in Myanmar's Chin state. In return, soft drinks, snacks, and other eatables, including sunflower seeds, are being brought into Zokhawthar.

The relaxation of restrictions has also led to an increase in tourist activity, with many visitors, including non-tribal Indians, flocking to Rih Dil, a heart-shaped lake considered sacred by the Mizos.

The easing of restrictions comes after Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Myanmar border in April last year, citing concerns over internal security and demographic changes in India's North Eastern states.

The initial restrictions had caused significant hardship for residents on both sides of the border, who rely heavily on cross-border trade. With the relaxation of restrictions, people are now breathing a sigh of relief as they regain their freedom to move and trade across the border.

UNI ZS BD