Mizoram Governor General Vijay Kumar Singh has called for sustained, coordinated efforts to restore the Chite Lui river, as he reviewed the progress of the Save Chite Lui Action Plan and discussed the road map for its second phase at Lok Bhavan in Aizawl. Chairing a meeting with the Save Chite Lui Coordination Committee and officials of the Public Works Department (PWD), the Governor, who is also the patron of the committee, was briefed in detail on Phase II of the initiative aimed at conserving and rejuvenating the river, which has long been under environmental stress.
Emphasising the urgency of intervention, the Governor stressed the need for a comprehensive and practical strategy to revive the river system. He suggested the installation of check gates and small dams at strategic locations to facilitate systematic removal of waste, alongside intensified plantation drives along the riverbanks to stabilise soil and restore ecological balance.
He also underscored the importance of stronger coordination among stakeholders, including government departments, local communities and non-governmental organisations, noting that collective ownership would be key to the success of the project. Calling for a more pragmatic approach, he advised that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) be simplified to ensure that proposed measures are both achievable and effective on the ground. The Governor reaffirmed his full support for the initiative.
Officials from the PWD and the Department of Environment, Forests and Climate Change made a PowerPoint presentation outlining the ongoing efforts under the action plan and the proposed interventions for Phase II. Among those present at the meeting were Save Chite Lui Coordination Committee general secretary Rochamliana and Superintending Engineer Lalrinngheta, along with other senior PWD officials.
The Chite Lui river, which flows through Aizawl, has in recent years faced severe degradation due to rapid urbanisation and unplanned development. Originating from the Bawngkawn range in north Aizawl, the river traverses nearly 20 km through the eastern part of the city before joining the Tuirial river in the south.
Encroachments along its banks and even on the riverbed have significantly reduced its width and depth. The river has also suffered from deforestation, leading to soil erosion and loss of natural vegetation, while unchecked dumping of urban waste has further deteriorated water quality, posing risks to aquatic life and biodiversity.
