Aizawl, Apr 22: The Gauhati High Court’s Aizawl bench has stopped tree felling in the Lammual area after environmental and heritage concerns surfaced. The court acted on a PIL filed by activist Siazampuii Sailo, noting that 174 out of 400 trees—many over 100 years old—were being cut. The land, recently vacated by the Assam Rifles, is slated for development projects. Meanwhile, the court has fixed the next hearing for May 18.
Read More: Nagaland Pork Gap: Boost Local Production
Key Facts
- Location: Aizawl
- Date of Order: April 21
- Court: Gauhati High Court (Aizawl Bench)
- Judges: Justice Michael Zothankhuma, Justice Kaushik Goswami
- Trees Affected: 174 out of 400 reportedly cut
- Petitioner: Siazampuii Sailo (Centre for Environment and Social Justice)
- Next Hearing: May 18
Court Steps In to Protect Trees
The Aizawl bench of the Gauhati High Court stepped in and stopped further tree felling in Lammual. The judges reviewed the PIL and immediately responded to the environmental risks.
Moreover, the bench referred to media reports that highlighted large-scale cutting. These reports showed that many trees in the area are more than a century old. Therefore, the court raised serious concerns about ecological damage.
Heritage Concerns Gain Attention
At the same time, the court examined the historical value of the site. Several barrack structures date back to 1897, and authorities have already tagged them as heritage buildings.
Because of this, the judges questioned the state government’s decision to remove old trees in central Aizawl. They stressed that such actions could harm both heritage value and environmental balance.
Development Plans Face Pause
Earlier, the Assam Rifles vacated the land, which opened space for new projects. The state government then planned infrastructure upgrades to improve traffic flow.
For instance, Urban Development Minister K. Sapdanga proposed widening the road between Treasury Square and Bazar Bungkawn. This project aims to ease congestion in one of the city’s busiest stretches.
However, the court has now paused tree cutting. As a result, authorities must wait until the next hearing before taking further action.
Government Forms Advisory Committee
Meanwhile, the state government has formed an advisory committee to guide the use of the land. Chief Minister Lalduhoma leads the panel, which includes NGOs, church leaders, and civil society members.
Additionally, the committee will review development plans and ensure a balance between growth and conservation. This approach aims to address both public needs and environmental concerns.
Q&A Section
What happened in Aizawl?
The Gauhati High Court stopped tree felling in the Lammual area.
Why did the court act?
It acted to protect century-old trees and preserve heritage structures.
Who filed the petition?
Activist Siazampuii Sailo filed the PIL.
What development was planned?
The government planned road widening and infrastructure upgrades.
When is the next hearing?
The court will hear the case on May 18.
Location Context
Aizawl is a key urban center in Northeast India. Therefore, decisions here often reflect the region’s challenge of balancing rapid development with environmental and cultural preservation.
Also Read: Surprising Tripura Political Reunion Moment: CM Saha and Pradyot Share Stage – Borok Times
