Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, was struck by heavy rainfall in late August 2024, causing widespread disruption and damage. The torrential downpour, which lasted for several hours, has severely impacted normal life, prompting authorities to close schools and warn residents of potential landslides and flooding in vulnerable areas. One of the most significant impacts of the rain has been the damage to the main road connecting Aizawl to Lengpui Airport, the state’s only airport, further complicating travel and relief efforts.
The heavy rains, triggered by an intensified monsoon system, led to widespread waterlogging in Aizawl, with many areas reporting clogged drains and streets inundated with water. The hilly terrain of Mizoram makes it particularly susceptible to landslides, and several incidents were reported across the city and nearby regions. Thankfully, no fatalities have been recorded so far, but the threat of further landslides remains high as the rains continue. Rescue teams and local authorities are on high alert, constantly monitoring high-risk areas and coordinating evacuation efforts in case of emergencies.
As a precautionary measure, the Mizoram government has ordered the closure of all schools in Aizawl and surrounding areas for the next few days. The decision came after several schools reported flooding in their premises, and authorities were concerned about the safety of students, especially in areas prone to landslides. Parents have been advised to keep their children indoors, and local administrations are working to ensure that basic services remain operational despite the ongoing weather challenges.
One of the most critical concerns arising from the heavy rain is the damage to the road leading to Lengpui Airport, located about 32 kilometers from Aizawl. The airport serves as the primary gateway for people traveling in and out of Mizoram. Due to the heavy rainfall, parts of the road have been washed away, leaving large stretches either submerged or damaged. This has severely affected travel, as flights have been delayed or canceled, and passengers have been left stranded. Efforts to repair the road are underway, but continuous rain is hampering progress, with authorities warning that it could take several days to restore normal connectivity.
The disruption to the road has also affected the transport of essential supplies to Aizawl. Mizoram relies heavily on goods transported by road, and with the main route to the airport damaged, there are concerns about potential shortages of food and medical supplies if the situation persists. Local traders and suppliers have expressed fears that the ongoing rains could further delay repairs, exacerbating the situation. The state government has assured residents that alternative routes are being explored to ensure a steady supply of essentials and that emergency measures are being put in place to mitigate any shortages.
In response to the crisis, the Mizoram government has deployed disaster response teams across the region. The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local authorities have been working to clear blocked roads and drain water from heavily affected areas. Temporary shelters have been set up for people living in landslide-prone zones, and relief efforts are being coordinated to provide food, water, and medical supplies to those in need. The government has also issued advisories, urging residents to avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary and to stay informed through official channels about weather updates and potential hazards.
Experts have pointed out that the hilly terrain of Aizawl and its surrounding areas makes it particularly vulnerable to the effects of heavy rainfall. Landslides are a frequent occurrence during the monsoon season, and poor drainage systems in many parts of the city often lead to waterlogging. Urban planners have long raised concerns about the lack of adequate infrastructure to deal with such extreme weather events. As climate change continues to exacerbate the intensity and frequency of monsoons, these challenges are becoming more pressing. The damage to the Lengpui Airport road is a stark reminder of the state’s vulnerability to natural disasters, and many are calling for more resilient infrastructure to withstand future calamities.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that heavy rains will likely continue for the next few days, further intensifying concerns about landslides and flooding. The IMD has issued a weather alert for Mizoram, advising residents to remain cautious and to follow updates closely. With more rain expected, the state government is bracing for additional challenges in the coming days.
As the rains continue to batter Aizawl, the immediate focus remains on ensuring the safety of residents and restoring normalcy as soon as possible. The closure of schools, the damaged road to the airport, and the ongoing threat of landslides have thrown the city into a state of heightened alert. While relief efforts are ongoing, the situation remains fluid, and much depends on how long the heavy rains persist. For now, Aizawl is facing one of its most severe monsoon challenges in recent years, and its residents are hoping for a swift return to calmer weather.