Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, October 25:
Setting November 30 as the deadline for the Government to withdraw its decision of setting up National Institute of Technology (NIT) at Lamphelpat, JAC for Preservation of Lamphel as Wetlands has warned of launching various intense agitations if the Government fails to do so.
Addressing a press conference in this connection at Manipur Press Club here today, JAC president M Surendra observed that Lamphelpat is a big industry bestowed by Nature itself and around 3000 families settled around Lamphelpat depend on it for their livelihood.
So the move being made by the Government to construct NIT at Lamphelpat should not be allowed at any cost.
Apart from the fertility of the soil at Lamphelpat area where agricultural activities can be taken up without using any fertiliser, many people depend on it for collecting naturally grown vegetables like Koukha, Kakthum, etc as well as for fishing, he said.
While pointing out that the Government has already made allotment of 300 acres of land for construction of NIT, 42 acres for Manipur Pony/Polo Association, 100 acres for Environment and Ecology Wing, 15 acres for State Medical Directorate, 1 acre for Ex-Servicemen's Polyclinic, 2.50 acres for Manipur Tennis Association, 100 acres for State Agriculture Department, 59.95 acres for Housing complex, Surendra appealed to the Government to facilitate a discussion session within November 10 on the appropriateness of taking up such developmental works in Lamphelpat area.
He further disclosed that five memoranda have been already been submitted to the Chief Minister in connection with preservation of Lamphelpat with particular emphasis on the move being made to set up NIT at Lamphelpat apart from three meetings to discuss the issues.
However, so far the Govt has not given any positive response.
So, if the Government does not withdraw its decision of setting up NIT at Lamphelpat within November 30, the JAC would be constraint to launch various intense agitations, Surendra warned.