'Phungcham park can become a tourist hotspot'
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang
Ukhrul, December 17 2021:
The historic Shimreishang & Maitonphi Park in Phungcham village has potential to become a tourism hotspot for Ukhrul district where parks are few and far between.
This was stated by retired CWPD engineer Wungpam Raikhan on Thursday, while speaking as the chief guest at the 6th Raising Day of the park located about 28 km north of Ukhrul town.
The park established in memory of the two Tangkhul legendary lovers, is owned and managed by Yangreiram Beautification Society (YBS) of Phungcham village since its inception in 2015 .
Congratulating YBS on the 6th celebration of its continued and relentless efforts in maintaining the historical park, he said "this is the only park we have in our north-west region, beginning from Phungcham till Sanakeithei village and we are really proud of it" .
He continued that the park not only has unique historical significances but also has a bright future.
He observed that the park is a cultural heritage and an identity for the Tangkhuls as a whole.
Simultaneously, the park holds a bright future for the local populace in terms of economy.
"It has potential to become a tourism destination.
To tap the potential, we need to develop this park by furnishing it with various facilities including driveways, foot-paths, canteens and others to attract more visitors/tourists," Raikhan said.
Talking about his intention to contest the forthcoming Manipur Assembly Elections 2022, Raikhan informed that he took voluntary retirement from his position as an engineer at Central Public Werks Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to serve the public.
Raikhan said that he recently joined the NPF and is seekingthe party's ticket to contest the coming polls from 45-Chingai AC.
In his speech as guest of honour, Livelihood and Natural Resources, (UDCRMS) manager Somipam Longleng extolled YBS and said that it is rendering an exemplary service to the community.
"The society, while keeping the legendary, story alive, is promoting this historic place by beautifying it," he said.
Stating that Tangkhul forebears used to have a close connection with nature, Longleng urged the present-day community to preserve the forest and natural environment.
The location of the park Longkhan is believed to be the rendezvous of Shimreishang and Maitonphi.
Adding grist to the mill of the colourful celebration, popular local artistes Somichan Vashum, Nimzingla Horam and Shimshang Pheirei and Mirin Pheikar gave different musical performances.
Choreography item by Mayochon Pheirei and co and acting play by Rinshang Horam and com also enthralled the audience.