International Rivers Day observed in Ukhrul District
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, March 14 2015 :
Mapithel Dam Villagers Villages Organization, the Citizens Concern for Dams and Development and the Campaign for Peoples Goals for Sustainable Develop-ment observed the International Rivers Day at Chadong Village, Ukhrul District along the Thoubal River on Saturday.
The observation was marked by protest against Mapithel dam along with presentation of speeches by environmentalist, human rights activist and cultural presentations.
Wungshang-phy Keishang of Riha village and KS Marina of Chadong village shared their poems entitled "Save Yangwui-khong" and "Mapithel Valley".
Folk songs were presented by elders of Chadong Village, said a press note issued by Aram Pamei, Co-Chairperson of Mapithel Dam Affected Villagers Organization (MDAVO) .
MDAVO Chairman Sakhathan stated that Mapithel dam was constructed forcibly without taking the free prior and informed consent of affected communities.
The Government of Manipur adopted forceful construction of Mapithel dam with militarization of their land and resources and further adopted divide and rule tactics among the affected communities, alleged the chairman.
MDAVO Advisor Thanmi Kashung said the blocking of Yangwui Kong (Thoubal River) has already led to submergence of prime agriculture land and forest areas in Louphoung and Chadong village.
Others who spoke on the occasion include Sumshot Khullar of Naga Women Union; Jiten Yumnam, Joint Secretary of Citizens Concern for Dams and Development; Phulindro Konsam, Chairperson of Committee on Human Rights and others.