Natural Resources Mapping of Aizawl District using Remote Sensing and GIS

The Natural Resources Mapping of Aizawl District using Remote Sensing and GIS was undertaken by the Mizoram State Remote Sensing Centre (MSRSC), Science, Technology & Environment Wing, Planning Department, Government of Mizoram, under the Natural Resources Mapping of Mizoram programme sponsored by the North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong. As part of a state-wide initiative implemented in a phased manner, the project aimed to establish a comprehensive geospatial database of Aizawl District using Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information System (GIS), GPS surveys, and field investigations. The study was designed to provide scientifically validated information for sustainable management of land, water, forests, and other natural resources while supporting evidence-based planning across multiple development sectors.

The study covers the entire Aizawl District, encompassing a geographical area of approximately 3,576.31 sq. km, representing one of the largest administrative districts in Mizoram. Multi-source datasets, including IRS-1D LISS-III and Panchromatic satellite imagery, Survey of India topographic maps, geological information, meteorological records, and detailed field observations, were integrated within a GIS environment to prepare thematic maps on land use/land cover, geology, geomorphology, drainage, watersheds, groundwater potential, slope, aspect, soils, settlements, and transport networks. The integration of these datasets enabled comprehensive assessment of the district's natural resource potential and constraints.

The investigation reveals that Aizawl District is characterized by rugged north-south trending hill ranges, steep slopes, and deeply dissected river valleys, making terrain one of the dominant factors influencing land use and development. Forests continue to be the principal land cover, with bamboo forests occupying the largest proportion of the district, followed by medium and dense forests, highlighting the district's rich biodiversity and ecological significance. However, the study also identifies current and abandoned shifting cultivation (jhum) as important landscape components, reflecting the continued dependence of rural communities on traditional agricultural practices. Expansion of horticultural plantations and permanent agricultural land in suitable valleys and gentle slopes indicates a gradual transition towards more sustainable land-use systems.

Groundwater assessment shows that the district possesses localized zones of moderate groundwater potential, primarily associated with fractured sandstone formations and valley fills, while much of the hilly terrain exhibits limited groundwater availability due to steep slopes and rapid surface runoff. Soil investigations reveal predominantly acidic hill soils with moderate organic carbon content but varying fertility and erosion susceptibility depending on terrain conditions. The study also delineates watershed boundaries and evaluates drainage characteristics, providing a scientific basis for watershed development, rainwater harvesting, and integrated water resource management.

A major outcome of the project is the development of a district-level natural resources information, integrating multiple thematic layers into a GIS platform for spatial analysis and planning. Based on the resource assessment, the report recommends watershed management, soil and water conservation, afforestation, agroforestry, horticultural expansion, groundwater development, and land capability-based planning to promote sustainable utilization of natural resources while minimizing environmental degradation.

Overall, the project demonstrates the value of integrating Remote Sensing, GIS, GPS, and field-based investigations for comprehensive natural resource assessment in mountainous regions. The thematic maps, digital databases, and resource development plans generated under the study provide an important reference for government agencies, planners, researchers, and development organizations engaged in sustainable environmental management and regional planning. By establishing a standardized geospatial database, the project continues to serve as a valuable foundation for natural resource conservation, infrastructure planning, watershed development, and future geospatial studies in Aizawl District.

Summarized Metadata

Mapping Scale: 1:50,000

Satellite data & Year: IRS 1D PAN & LISS III (2003 & 2004) – Digital & Photo print

Thematic sub-category: Land Use/Land Cover, Geology, Water resource, Climate, Action Plan 

Collaborating/Funding Agency: North Eastern Council (NEC), Shillong

Report Publication Month/Year: June, 2006