Mizoram's Lunglei faces severe water shortage as primary stream dries up

Aizawl: Lunglei, Mizoram's second largest town, after Aizawl, has been facing severe water shortage as the Pialthleng stream, its primary water source, is rapidly drying up, public health engineering (PHE) department sources said on Friday.

PHE superintending engineer (SE) Zohmingliana said the state govt was yet to formulate a plan to provide additional water supply to the town. In 20203, Lunglei's population was estimated to be around 157,000.

Zohmingliana said the Pialthleng river had completely dried up on April 29, 2023, and then again a year later on April 28, causing significant hardship to the residents. "Rainfall provided temporary relief in both 2023 and last year. However, the water level of the Pialthleng river is depleting faster this year due to a prolonged dry season," he said.

He further said that while the town possesses adequate water reservoirs, a reliable power supply and an efficient pumping system, the fundamental issue has been the dwindling water level of the Pialthleng river.

A concrete gravity dam has been under construction on the Tlawng river as a potential long-term solution. However, the contractor has been granted a six-month extension due to delays. Zohmingliana said that if the construction was completed on time, the severe water shortage could be avoided next year.

Other engineers mentioned the presence of 90 traditional water sources, locally known as ‘tuikhur,' within the town.

Regular tests have been conducted to determine its potability. Residents are advised to boil water from these traditional sources, while awaiting laboratory test results.

The main water supply for Lunglei town, the Greater Lunglei Water Supply Scheme Phase-I, was constructed by Subhash Projects and Marketing Limited and was inaugurated in 1995. At the time, it was recognized as the "Highest Single Stage Pumping System in India," designed to serve a population of 66,000. However, the population has more than doubled in Lunglei since then.

Currently, there are 16,012 registered household water consumers. Distributing water to every household takes at least a month's cycle, indicating the strain on the existing system. Shop owners in Lunglei report that sales of distilled water bottles have surged due to the scarcity.