Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Tuesday laid the foundation stone for the first phase of the Aizawl city beautification project, marking a significant milestone as the state begins redevelopment of land vacated by the Assam Rifles.
The initiative, titled the “Early Bird Project,” forms a key component of the broader Lammual master plan and aims to transform several hectares of Aizawl’s central core with a focus on public utility, urban renewal and modern infrastructure.
Addressing the gathering, Lalduhoma said the land-use plan for the reclaimed Assam Rifles area was not a unilateral decision of the government but the outcome of a consultative process involving an advisory committee and various stakeholders.
He noted that while multiple proposals had been received, the final plan has now been approved and no further suggestions would be considered. He also said arrangements would be made to relocate the existing Mandir at the Canteen Kual or Zodin area as part of the redevelopment.
The Chief Minister further announced that emissaries would be sent to engage with private landowners and organisations in Bazar Bungkawn to facilitate the creation of the proposed Aizawl Square. He appealed to stakeholders to cooperate in the larger interest of the state.
“We aim to transform the heart of Aizawl into a vibrant and inclusive public space — a place for children, youth and the elderly alike. As this project is for all, I urge everyone to extend their cooperation. I also hope contractors will approach the work with a sense of responsibility beyond profit,” Lalduhoma said.
Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Minister K. Sapdanga, Assembly Speaker Lalbiakzama and other ministers and legislators were present on the occasion.
Sapdanga said the relocation of Assam Rifles establishments from the heart of Aizawl had been a long-standing aspiration dating back to the Union Territory period, with successive governments working towards it.
“Our government is fortunate to see this vision materialise during our tenure. This is a moment of collective achievement and should unite us all,” he said.
Officials said substantial funds have already been sanctioned to initiate the project. As part of the plan, a new road will be constructed from Saron Veng, near the Baptist Church, extending eastward to connect with the main post office (Dak Inpui) at Treasury Square. An allocation of Rs 23 crore has been made for the road construction and widening works, to be executed by the Public Works Department.
The project also envisages the development of a prominent Aizawl Square at Bazar Bungkawn, along with the establishment of a police outpost and a power sub-station along the Saron–Dak Inpui corridor to support the city centre.
In addition, a 2,000-capacity hall with an auditorium and parking facilities will be constructed on the northern side of the Lammual ground, with its design to be finalised through a competition.
A large water reservoir with aesthetic public seating is planned on the southern ridge overlooking Lammual. Public parks will be developed at the Canteen or Zodin area and between the proposed Vanapa Hall and the reservoir. An open amphitheatre and a multi-level parking facility are also planned near Dak Inpui.
Officials added that a significant portion of the reclaimed land will be designated as a “Green Zone,” featuring walking and fitness trails. Eight heritage buildings in the heritage court area will be renovated, while non-heritage structures will be demolished to make way for new developments. An allocation of Rs 3 crore has been made for this component.
The Assam Rifles land was formally handed over to the state government on March 15 last year following the relocation of the paramilitary force to Zokhawsang on the eastern outskirts of Aizawl.