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| Old Mizoram State Transport (MST) Bus |
As Christmas approaches, memories of the old MST Bus (Mizoram State Transport bus) come flooding back. For those who grew up in rural Mizoram, the MST bus was more than just a mode of transport – it was a symbol of adventure, experience, and joy.
In the 1990s, the MST bus was the lifeline that connected rural villages to towns and cities. It was the primary mode of public transport for people living in rural areas, operating mainly from Aizawl to district towns and villages across Mizoram.
During the Christmas season, the MST bus would be jam-packed with passengers travelling to Aizawl or big towns for holiday shopping. The ticket booking office at Tuikual in Aizawl would be bustling with activity, as people queued up to buy tickets for the journey home. Lovers would bid farewell to each other at the bus station, as those from rural areas departed for their respective villages to celebrate Christmas with their families.
In the home village, kids and lovers would eagerly await the arrival of the MST bus, knowing that their parents, relatives, or loved ones were coming home.
In those days, knowing the MST driver or conductor was a privilege. They were the unsung heroes who kept the rural communities connected, and their knowledge of the terrain and weather conditions was unparalleled. Rural children would often recall the names of their favourite drivers and conductors, who were like semi-celebrities in rural areas.
As the bus wound its way through the scenic countryside, passengers would gaze out of the window, taking in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills, terrain cliffs, and roadside stalls. However, the dry and dusty roads of the Christmas season often proved to be a challenge for many passengers. The roads, neglected and poorly maintained, would be covered in a thick layer of dust and soil, making every journey a bumpy and uncomfortable ride.
Tyre punctures and engine malfunctions were also common occurrences, leaving passengers stranded in the middle of nowhere. But despite these challenges, the passengers would willingly wait for the repairs to be done, often in the midst of dense forest coverage areas between villages.
The drivers and conductors would work tirelessly to repair the bus, and the passengers would gather around, watching with interest as the repairs were carried out. The sense of community and camaraderie that developed among the passengers during these delays was something special. Strangers would become friends, sharing stories and laughter as they waited for the bus to be repaired.
Despite the delays and challenges, the MST bus remained a beloved mode of transport for many in Mizoram. The bus would stop at every village, picking up passengers and dropping off goods, creating a sense of community and connection among its travellers. Additionally, the bus would make scheduled stops at roadside restaurants, allowing travellers to refresh and recharge during their journey.
Although the MST bus is no longer the dominant mode of transport it once was, having been replaced by better private transport operators, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many. In some places, the MST bus continues to operate, albeit with upgraded and modernised designs.
As Christmas approaches, many may recall their past travel experiences in the old MST bus. The memories of laughter, camaraderie, and adventure that came with travelling by bus during the holiday season remain etched in their minds, a nostalgic reminder of Christmases past. These memories continue to evoke a sense of warmth and joy, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life.
- Written by Dr. Lalzarzoa, Kawnveng, Sialsuk
