Environmental Concerns over Aizawl Bypass Project: A Threat to Aizawl's Drinking Water Security

Construction Activities and Environmental Damage

The Centre for Environmental and Social Justice (CESJ), Mizoram, has raised serious concerns over the ongoing construction of the Aizawl Bypass, pointing out that the project is causing significant environmental damage to the Tlawng River, the primary source of drinking water for nearly 3.4 lakh residents of Aizawl.

According to CESJ, the road alignment for the 45-kilometer bypass, from Sihhmui to Muallungthu, runs along the eastern bank of the Tlawng River and intersects several perennial streams and tributaries that directly drain into the river.

Pollution of the Tlawng River

In 2025, CESJ observed that large quantities of muck and debris generated from earth-cutting were dumped indiscriminately on hill slopes, depressions, and natural streams below the road alignment. The dumped material eventually washed into the Tlawng River, leading to pollution and public concern across Aizawl.

Failure to Comply with Regulations

CESJ submitted representations to various authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner of Aizawl, the Public Works Department (PWD), the Environment, Forest and Climate Change (EF&CC) Department, and the Mizoram Pollution Control Board, seeking an immediate halt to construction and illegal muck disposal until statutory clearances are obtained.

Despite the recommendations made by the Mizoram State Project Monitoring Committee (MSPMC) to secure necessary environmental and statutory clearances and suspend earth-cutting activities until approved muck disposal sites are established, construction activities continued in certain areas, obstructing natural watercourses and perennial streams feeding into the Tlawng River.

Violations of Forest Conservation Laws

CESJ also alleged that portions of the bypass pass through the Tlawng Reserved Forest without prior forest clearance from the Central Government, in violation of forest conservation laws.

Non-compliance with prescribed environmental safeguards under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 was also alleged.

Implications for North East India and Beyond

The Tlawng River provides not only drinking water to Aizawl but also supports various aquatic species and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the region. The ongoing environmental damage to the river could have severe consequences for the ecosystem and the people who depend on it.

Moreover, the failure to comply with environmental regulations and forest conservation laws sets a concerning precedent for infrastructure projects across India, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement and penalties for violations.

A Call for Action

In light of these concerns, CESJ has appealed to the district administration to issue an immediate stay on the construction and to take necessary action against the alleged violations. The organization's efforts serve as a reminder to prioritize environmental sustainability in all development projects, ensuring the protection of our natural resources for future generations.