Rally says no to expansion of KLNP
Source: The Sangai Express
Moirang, August 21 2022:
A sit-in protest was staged today at Ithai Wapokpi in Kumbi constituency against the alleged proposal of the State Government to expand the area of Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP)as per a notification issued in 2016 .
The protesters claimed that the move will lead to shrinkage of lakes in the adjoining areas of the National Park and cause ecological imbalance, apart from affecting the livelihood of many people.
Later, the protesters took out a rally after forming a JAC to prevent expansion of Keibul Lamjao National Park.
Speaking to media persons, secretary of the newly formed JAC, Khangembam Surdash stated that a meeting of all the people residing in close proximity to the National Park was convened on August 5 at Kumbi Keithel.
Saying that the meeting resolved to urge the State Government to analyse the possible impacts that would be caused by expansion of the National Park to the people in nearby areas, he added that they, however, couldn't meet any representative of the State Government till date.
Continuing that many people provide for their families through fishing and collecting vegetables from the adjoining areas of Keibul Lamjao National Park, Surdash added that expanding the National Park will leave many people in difficult positions.
He said that the JAC was formed in the interest of those people whose fate hangs in the balance and added that many more protests would be staged if the Government doesn't give any positive response.
One Jiban from Ithai Wapokpi said that they weren't aware of the notification issued in 2016 to enlarge the coverage of Keibul Lamjao National Park.
He urged Chief Minister N Biren to understand the plights of the people and work accordingly.
During the rally, placards with inscriptions such as "Save our lakes", "Save the lives of potential fish farmers" etc were displayed.