Transformer uproar
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 19 2018: In a questionable move, the Power Department installed a transformer among the monolith stones of Wilong, which was declared a protected site by the ASI, thus negatively affecting the place which has great historical significance.

The Wilong monoliths, which were discovered by the British at Maram-Peren road and which bear great significance for the Maram tribe, have been under the protection of the Art and Culture Dept ever since its classification as a protected site.

However, many have questioned the action of the Power Dept in erecting a transformer among the monoliths.

According to a reliable source, the Power Department did not inform the Art and Culture Department while erecting the transformer and despite repeated instructions from the Art and Culture Department to the Power Department to remove the transformer, there has been no positive response till date.

Explaining that construction of any new structures which can affect the original condition of a protected area is prohibited, the source added that if in any case a protected area is affected, repairing or restoring works should be carried out.

On the other hand, the source also informed that the recent construction of a brick wall around the monolith stones by the Tourism Department has also blocked most of the monolith from view.

According to Art and Culture Minister L Jayantakumar, he has no knowledge about erecting the transformer by the Power Department among the monolith stones.

The Minister also assured that he will urge the Minister in charge of the Power Department to do the needful and remove the transformer at the earliest.

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