Downstream villagers fear flooding by dam waters
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, July 27 2015:
The Government did not take any immediate measures for Mapithel dam downstream affected villagers.
Hundreds of villagers are still taking shelter at the higher grounds of Tumukhong since they apprehend being washed away by the dam waters.
Meanwhile, Joint Action Committee for Mapithel Dam Downstream Affected People submitted an ultimatum to the Chief Minister of Manipur O Ibobi demanding that their safety be ensured.
If the government fails to do so the villagers shall launch various forms of agitations from August 5, the memorandum warned.
The memorandum to the Chief Minister of Manipur submitted by JAC Convener Takhellambam Kaboklei said that the situation at Mapithel dam is alarming since it is alleged that the dam did not maintain quality construction.
Kaboklei also said that the downstream affected villagers have been residing there since time immemorial and their main source of livelihood has been deprived now.
The JAC demanded the government to immediately ensure their livelihood by granting proper compensation and rehabilitation package.
They also demanded to immediate provision of safe drinking and irrigation water to the downstream affected people.
The JAC further demanded to review Mapithel dam construction for holistic impact on indigenous communities along the Thoubal river and stop Mapithel dam construction till completion of such reviews.
Kaboklei urged the government to revive the expert review committee on Mapithel Dam which was formed on January 18, 2008 as per the wishes of all villagers affected by Mapithel dam.