Yarou Sangai: The Lost Kingdom launched Environmentalist sounds SOS for Sangai
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 21 2022:
While expressing concern over the situation of Sangai in its habitat, Environmentalist Kh Samungou has said that the State animal will disappear if no prompt action is taken up to preserve them.
He also said that the living conditions of Sangais is very distressing and if they indeed become extinct then "we would have no other options than to install artificial Sangais in the form of statues or other structures at Keibul Lamjao" .
The environmentalist was addressing the launch function of a Sangai anthem "Yarou Sangai: The Lost Kingdom" at Hotel Classic Grande at Chingmeirong, today.
The anthem produced by Tamna Sanggai Records is based on a book "Yarou Sangai - The Lost Kingdom written by Kh Samungou.
Acclaimed singer Ranbir Thouna is the composer and lyricist of the anthem.
At the function, the environmentalist continued that the Sangais which live on floating biomasses have been fighting a constant battle for its survival due to various factors.
Saying that Loktak Project is also one such factor which damages the floating biomasses, Kh Samungou maintained that the Keibul Lamjao will become the world's only floating museum if Sangais become extinct.
"To avoid such a scenario, a collective effort is needed to protect Sangais," he added.
Further stating that habitat loss is threatening the survival of Sangais, Samungou stated that the Keibul Lamjao which measures only about 40 sq Km is now the only home of the State animal.
The environmentalist further stated that Sangais are living like a caged animal in their own habitat Keibul Lamjao and "if this problem continues, then the State animal will surely become extinct".
Acclaimed singer Ranbir Thouna also attended the programme.
He said that Tamna Sanggai Records has been taking part in the conservation of Manipuri culture and tradition by organising campaigns such as "Save Loktak, Our Life".
Saying that the anthem was launched to spread awareness on the difficulties being faced by Sangais, Ranbir Thouna continued that Keibul Lamjao will only be a National park on paper if the State animal disappears.
Health and Family Welfare Dr Sapam Ranjan Singh, Social Welfare Minister Heikham Dingo Singh, CAF & PD Minister Leishangthem Susindro Meitei, Wangkhei AC MLA Th Arunkumar Singh and Managing Director of Babina Healthcare and Hospitality Industries Private Limited Dr Thangjam Dhabali Singh were also present at the function.