Number of Sangai in Keibul Lamjao National Park rises to 204
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, October 03 2014 :
Finally the number of endangered Sangai in Keibul Lamjao National Park which was once feared of extinction has rose to 204 from 180 in 2003 thanks to all hard efforts put in by Forest Department and several other organizations which have been coming up with various measures to ensure that the number of the species is increased.
Interacting with media persons in this regard, L Biramangol, Range Forest Officer, Range 1 of Keibul Lamjao National Park said that the number of Sangai which is only found in the State was on downfall due to certain factors with its number reducing to a less figure of 180 when counted in 2003 much lower than the past years.
He stated that the number was found increased to 204 as per census report conducted in 2013 and conceded that proper protection of Keibul Lamjao National Park by Forest Department and effective awareness to the people led to the increase of the number of the rare species.
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Several factors which are responsible for downfall of the number of the species are absence of grazing areas due to rise in water level of Loktak Lake and killing of them by poachers for meat etc, he added.
Stating that the Sangai which is the State animal was enlisted as endangered in the record of International Union of Conservation of Nature & Natural Resources, he appealed to all concerned to extend support to steps taken up by Forest Department to save the endangered species from going extinct.
In connection with the ongoing week-long Wildlife Week celebration across the country which had started from October 1, Forest Department in collaboration with Environment Social Reformation and Sangai Protection Forum jointly organized a cycle rally under the theme 'Save Sangai' today.
The rally which started from the office of Range Forest Officer, Range 1 of Keibul Lamjao National Park was flagged off by Ningthoujam Indira, Zilla Parishad Member of Moirang Khunou Kha Thinungei and N Tomba, SDO Moirang together.
Carrying messages of conservation of wild life species, the rally passed through Ithai, Nongmaikhong, Wapokpi, Khordak and ended at Laphupat Tera Public Ground where a public meeting was held.