Check unlawful settlements, electric fishing at Loktak: JYDC
Source: The Sangai Express
Thoubal, February 07 2023:
Joint Youth Development Committee (JYDC) Mayang Imphal has sought the attention of the State Government regarding illegal settlements in the surrounding areas of Loktak lake from Komlakhong Chingthi to Khaji Sumbantaobi Kajin in Mayang Imphal.
Calling for an end to such illegal settlements, JYDC has also pointed out battery/electric fishing carried out in the area and demanded an end to this practice.
The appeal was made by Chesam Achouba, president, JYDC during an inspection of the aforementioned areas where the illegal activities were reportedly taking place while accompanied by media persons.
He stated that the team had decided to conduct an inspection visit upon hearing of the occurrence of unlawful activities in the surrounding areas of Loktak lake.
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The president of JYDC further said that under the leadership of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, the BJP Government in the State has made relentless efforts to safeguard the Loktak lake with the cleaning of 'phumdis', dismantling of settlements, prohibition on certain modes of fishing etc.
In this regard, he added that the Loktak Development Authority (LDA) had issued a notice under Manipur Loktak Lake Protection Act on July 18, 2022 following which illegal settlements were dismantled and electric fishing was prohibited.
Those affected by the dismantling of settlements were also given compensation, he asserted.
However, in violation of the Government's instructions, many have settled at Khaji Sumbantaobi and carried out fishing with the use of electric, LED bulb, battery etc, he alleged.
Chesam Achouba further urged those illegally settled at Khaji Sumbantaobi to dismantle their settlements and stop electric fishing at the earliest.
"If such illegal activities are not brought to an end at once, JYDC will launch intense agitations with the cooperation of the public to save and protect Loktak lake", he said.
Acknowledging that the livelihood of the settlers depends on the Loktak lake, he urged them to find non-invasive ways to earn their livelihood that will not harm the lake.