'Concerted efforts needed to save wetlands'
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, November 08 2022:
Loktak Development Authority (LDA) chairman M Asnikumar has stressed the need for concerted efforts for saving the disappearing wetlands of the state including Pumlen Pat, the second largest wetland of the state after Loktak Lake.
Attending as chief guest of the 27th Pumlen Pat Day celebration organised by Pumlen Lake Development Organisation (PLDO) at Tokpaching village on Tuesday, Asnikumar said that Pumlen Pat is one of the most crucial and historically important lakes of the state.
He stressed the importance of a joint effort to save the lake while understanding the ecological, cultural and socio-economic values of the lake.
While commending the role of the local fishermen in clearing the biomass from the lake, he said that in addition to Chingjao, Chingkok, Chingmei and Hapcha serving as important elements of the lake and providing livelihood to around 22 villages, the lake is home to several flora and fauna.
Asnikumar further said that LDA under the leadership of chief minister N Biren is developing a master plan to protect Loktak Lake, Pumlen Pat and other wetlands of the state.
Hiyanglam MLA Dr Y Radheshyam presided over the function, which was also attended by local ZP member, pradhan, academicians and functionaries of PLDO among others.
Painting competitions, essay writing competitions and cultural shows were the other highlights of the celebration.