KLNP expansion opposed
Source: The Sangai Express
Moirang, September 07 2022:
A signature campaign has been launched at Thanga Moirangthem Leikai today against the purported move of the Government to expand the coverage of Keibul Lamjao National Park based on a notification issued in 2016 .
The signature campaign being organised by JAC of the people of areas affected by the extension of Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP) began after convening a public meeting at the same locality (Thanga Moirangthem Leikai), today.
Reportedly, the JAC has collected over 300 signatures from the residents of Thanga Khoirom, Thanga Khunjem, Thanga Moirangthem and Thanga Tongbram.
During the meeting, the attendees resolved to urge the Government to protect the rights of the people living in close proximity to the National park and prevent shrinkage of Kumbi Pat, Ungamlen Pat etc.
President of Thanga Keibul Collective Fish Farmer Co Operative Society Limited Heisnam Kumar Singh, JAC advisor Oinam Ibojao and elders of different localities of Thanga took part in the meeting.
Speaking to media persons, one of the residents of Thanga said that expanding the National Park would do more harm to the people living nearby, let alone benefit them.
Opining that posting sufficient Forest staff at the National park would be more viable in safeguarding Sangais (Rucervus eldii eldii) and other animals there, he claimed that expanding the KLNP would lead to loss of wildlife as it would increase human�animal encounters.
He urged the Government to not expand the National park and safeguard the source of livelihood for hundreds of people.