Mizoram is grappling with the full force of the monsoon.
Between May 24 and July 9, the state recorded a staggering 846 landslides, disrupting lives, damaging property, and crippling transport networks.
The crisis underscores the fragile terrain of Mizoram. Intense rains, loose soil, and steep slopes have created a perfect storm for disaster.
Aizawl Bears the Brunt
Aizawl district is the worst affected.
Officials confirmed at least 127 landslides have struck the district so far. Many incidents occurred near urban settlements.
Roads have caved in. Houses cling to weakened hillsides. Commuters and businesses face daily disruption. Furthermore, A local official from Aizawl’s Disaster Management Department said:
“We’ve never seen this scale of damage in such a short span. The city’s slopes are giving way almost every day.”
Lunglei Faces New Challenges
After Aizawl, Lunglei district has emerged as another hotspot for landslides. Heavy rains over the past weeks triggered significant slides. But, debris blocked highways and rural roads.
People in remote villages have been cut off. Emergency crews struggle to reach those areas due to washed-out routes.
A Lunglei resident said:
“Our roads are broken. We have no way to bring supplies. We fear more rain will bring bigger landslides.”
Infrastructure Suffers Severe Damage
The landslides have battered Mizoram’s fragile infrastructure.
- Roads have collapsed in dozens of places.
- Bridges have suffered damage from flowing debris.
- Water supply lines and power connections remain disrupted.
Aizawl’s main roads are frequently shut for clearing operations. However, heavy machinery works round the clock to remove earth and rocks.
The Public Works Department (PWD) has estimated damages worth several crores. Reconstruction may take months.
See updates about Mizoram’s infrastructure on the state government website.
Landslides Threaten Homes and Lives
Beyond infrastructure, the landslides have hit homes hard. However, several houses have collapsed in Aizawl’s outskirts. Families have been shifted to relief camps.
Authorities have warned residents living on vulnerable slopes to evacuate. Also, despite no reports of mass casualties, injuries have been reported in isolated incidents.
Mizoram’s State Disaster Response Force remains on high alert. They conduct rescue drills and evacuations whenever heavy rain is forecast.
Why Mizoram Is So Prone to Landslides
Experts say Mizoram’s geology makes it highly vulnerable.
The state lies in a hilly zone with soft sedimentary rocks. Continuous rainfall saturates the soil, triggering sudden slope failures.
Human activity compounds the problem. Further, rapid urban growth, deforestation, and poorly planned construction have weakened slopes around urban areas.
A geologist from Mizoram University stated:
“Mizoram’s urban expansion into hill slopes is risky. Climate change has worsened rainfall patterns, causing intense bursts that the terrain cannot withstand.”
Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Leaders and activists are calling for sustainable solutions.
Experts recommend slope stabilisation projects, better drainage systems, and strict building regulations.
Environmental groups urge the government to protect green cover and reduce hill cutting for construction.
Without changes, Mizoram could face worse disasters each monsoon.
Mizoram Government Responds
Mizoram’s government has mobilised disaster response units.
Relief measures include:
- Clearing debris from blocked roads.
- Providing temporary shelters.
- Supplying food and medicine to isolated communities.
Chief Minister Zoramthanga visited several affected sites. Also, he assured residents of immediate support and long-term plans to strengthen infrastructure.
A senior official said:
“The state government is working on both emergency relief and permanent solutions. We need central assistance to rebuild what we’ve lost.”
Looking Ahead: A Call for Vigilance
Mizoram’s battle with the monsoon is far from over.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more heavy rain in the coming weeks. Officials remain on alert for further landslides.
Citizens are urged to avoid risky areas, follow warnings, and report signs of slope movement.
Mizoram’s resilience is under severe test. But timely action and community cooperation can save lives and reduce losses.
Stay updated on local news about Mizoram’s weather and landslides on Northeast Today.
Together, Mizoram can face this monsoon challenge—and build safer slopes for the future.