A proposal to fell 176 trees in Aizawl as part of multiple infrastructure projects has sparked concern among environmentalists and civil society groups, with calls for a review of the plan and exploration of alternative approaches.
Concerns are mounting over the proposed felling of some of Mizoram’s oldest trees, with growing calls for urgent intervention.
Ruatfela Nu, an environmentalist and activist, said, “The Centre for Environment and Social Justice (CESJ) conducted a detailed study on urban forestry in 2024 with the involvement of experts. The findings were later compiled into a report and formally presented to the Chief Minister in January 2025.”
Referring to the findings, she stated, “Trees within the Assam Rifles area in Aizawl currently store an estimated 4,830.04 metric tonnes of carbon. If these trees are cut, this carbon will be released, contributing significantly to climate change. At the same time, these trees will no longer be able to absorb atmospheric carbon.”
She further said, “CESJ has identified 176 trees marked for felling, and we are committed to taking all necessary steps to protect them. We also appeal to the public to support us in safeguarding these trees.”
Highlighting the reasons behind the proposed felling, she noted, “The projects include widening of the Aizawl Spine Road between Bazar Bungkawn and Dakinpui to 14 metres, expansion of the bypass road from Saron Baptist Church towards Dakinpui, and the development of Aizawl Square near the AR Hospital area, which involves hill cutting and levelling.”
However, she questioned the impact of these projects, stating, “We are not convinced that widening roads alone will significantly ease traffic congestion in Aizawl. The environmental cost of cutting mature trees is too high compared to the expected benefits.”
CESJ submitted a representation to the Public Works Department, urging it to reconsider the plan and explore alternatives, and also approached the Mizoram Pollution Control Board, requesting a stay on the felling of trees that help maintain air quality.
Notably, in December 2024, Chief Minister Lalduhoma had unveiled a comprehensive report titled “Tree Inventory & Carbon Storage of Assam Rifles Campus, Aizawl, Mizoram.” The study, prepared by CESJ, highlighted the ecological significance of the Assam Rifles campus and its role in carbon sequestration.
At the event, the Chief Minister emphasised that development must go hand in hand with environmental conservation and assured that any progress would be guided by collective consultation and environmental responsibility.
He also stated that a joint survey is underway regarding the relocation of the Assam Rifles headquarters and that the vacated land would be conserved in line with sustainability goals. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Lalthansanga also expressed support for initiatives that balance development with conservation.
The study, conducted by research scholars PC Zothanpuii and Michael Lalramdingliana from the Department of Forestry at Mizoram University and edited by Dr Vanramliana, documented the rich biodiversity of the Assam Rifles campus.
Spanning 16.9 hectares, the area is home to 480 trees representing 80 species across 31 families and 59 genera. The findings include the presence of critically endangered, endangered, and vulnerable species, along with 71 plant species with medicinal value. The trees collectively sequester an estimated 5,766.73 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
The research was based on a comprehensive, self-funded tree census carried out without external financial assistance.
Beginning on 26 September 2024, a team of six members, including forestry experts, conducted the study under strict access conditions, working only two hours a day within the Assam Rifles campus.
Using a random quadrat sampling method, they surveyed 25 plots of 20 x 20 square metres, covering a total area of 10,000 square metres, and meticulously documented every tree within these plots.
Species identification was carried out both in the field and through cross-referencing with global databases such as World Flora Online, while conservation status was verified using the IUCN Red List.
The study also assessed ecosystem services based on community perceptions, following the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework.
Beyond biodiversity, the findings highlighted the multiple ecological benefits provided by the trees, including air purification, climate regulation, stormwater management, and support for wildlife habitats.
Researchers emphasised that each mature tree represents decades of growth and plays a crucial role as a carbon reservoir, as well as contributing to the cultural and aesthetic value of the city.
The study further noted that tree cover loss across northeastern states, including Mizoram, has been significant over the past two decades, underlining the urgency of conservation efforts.
Emphasising the larger concern, Ruatfela Nu said, “This issue goes beyond infrastructure development. It is about the long-term ecological impact and the need to balance development with environmental conservation.”
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