LDA provides food, essential items to fishermen of Champu Khangpok Floating Village
Source: The Sangai Express

Bishnupur, August 03 2024: The Loktak Development Authority (LDA) distributed food grains and essential items to the fishermen of Champu Khangpok Floating Village in Loktak Lake today.

The distribution programme was taken up under the directives of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, said a statement by LDA.

The fishing community of Champu Khangpok has been trapped by thick phumdis for the past two weeks due to strong winds, enduring significant hardship.

The thick floating vegetation has cut them off from the rest of the lake, leaving them isolated and struggling to survive.

They have run out of essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medical necessities, making daily life increasingly difficult.

Since the Champu Khangpok Floating Village holds immense cultural and heritage significance, the LDA is taking steps to develop Champu Khangpok floating village as an iconic heritage floating village to safeguard not only the village but its residents and the wealth of indigenous knowledge accumulated over decades.

Additionally, they have been unable to venture out for fishing, their primary means of livelihood.

This has not only impacted their income but has also deprived them of their main source of food.

The community is facing immense challenges, particularly in taking care of their children, who are most vulnerable in such trying circumstances.

The combination of isolation, lack of supplies, and inability to fish has created a dire situation for these resilient people, who are now in desperate need of assistance.

The items were handed over to the representatives and villagers of Champu Khangpok Floating Village by LDA Chairman Asnikumar Moirangthem and its officials.

The distribution of food grains and essential supplies took place in a spirit of solidarity and support, acknowledging the severe hardships faced by the community.

'In this challenging time, the LDA is steadfast in its commitment to supporting these indigenous fishing communities, who have been instrumental in conservation efforts for Loktak Lake.

Their contributions to preserving the lake's ecosystem are invaluable, and we recognize their unwavering dedication to this cause.

By providing these essential supplies, we aim to alleviate some of the immediate burdens they face and reinforce our ongoing partnership in safeguarding the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Loktak Lake', said the statement by LDA.

Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister for his timely intervention, Chairman M Asnikumar stated, "The fishing community of Champu Khangpok has always played an integral role in the conservation efforts of the Loktak Development Authority.

In this hour of need, I am glad we can support them.

Together, we can work towards protecting the rich biodiversity and ecosystem of Loktak Lake, as well as improving the quality of life for those who depend on it for sustenance" .

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