Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 11:
Union Forest and Environment Ministry has asked the State Government to establish a bio-diversity board to keep tab on the pollution level as well as to chalk out programmes to preserve the ecological balance, according to Chairman of Manipur Pollution Control Board N Biren (MLA).
Talking to The Sangai Express from New Delhi, where he took part in the two day session of Forest Ministers and chairmen of State pollution control boards, Biren said on his return to Imphal the instructions from the Centre would be conveyed to the chief Minister to establish a bio-diversity board at the earliest.
The New Delhi congregation also stressed on the need to keep a close watch on the clinical waste materials disposal policy of private hospitals, which have mushroomed in recent times, said the MLA adding that the Manipur Pollution control Board will inspect private hospitals/clinics in congested areas to ascertain the waste material disposal policy adopted by these hospitals/clinics.
The session deliberated extensively on the programmes of the Central Government towards solid waste management, conservation of rivers and lakes and check water pollution level.
Inaugurating the session, Union Forest and Environment Minister Raja asked respective State Governments to effectively implement the Central programmes to contain pollution level, said the Heingang AC MLA.
While asserting that the activities of the State pollution control board manned by 21 personnel will be closely monitored in consultation with the Board officials, Biren said that they would seek central assistance to strengthen the State board.
The Union Minister was also informed of the State Govt's inability to construct two large lakes at the Langol foothills for want of funds, said the MLA.
Biren said that the artificial lake would go a long way in controlling inundation of low lying areas in Imphal, especially during the Monsoon season besides preserving the environment.