Devastating floods impact beekeeping in Imphal East, over 200 beehives destroyed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 15 2024:
The All Manipur Beekeepers' Association (AMBA), accompanied by Th Joysana Meetei, Lifetime Corporate Member of the National Bee Board (NBB), New Delhi conducted an extensive inspection of the devastating impact recent floods have had on beekeeping communities in the villages of Maiba Khul, Mongjam, and Koirengei.
The inspection, carried out on June 14, 2024, revealed significant damage, with approximately 200 beehives destroyed and numerous bee colonies lost, said a release issued by AMBA.
The inspection team, comprising Nagngom Khelemba, vice president, AMBA; W Dinamani, treasurer, AMBA; Dr Atom Sunil Singh, secretary, AMBA and H Folo Singh, assistant secretary, AMBA, observed widespread destruction.
The floodwaters had swept away many beehives, leaving behind scenes of devastation with countless dead bees.
W Dinamani expressed the Association's commitment to supporting the affected beekeepers, stating, "We will do our utmost to provide assistance to the beekeepers of Manipur during this challenging time".
Nagngom Khelemba described the situation as "quite unfortunate," reflecting on the significant hardships faced by the beekeeping community.
Dr Atom Sunil Singh highlighted the broader environmental impact, noting, "The recent floods in Imphal Valley, particularly in Imphal East District, have had a detrimental effect on bee population" .
"Flooding leads to the inundation of nest-cells and mould growth, which threaten the brood of soil-nesting bees.
This reduction in bee numbers can have far-reaching consequences, as bees are essential for pollination, which is vital for biodiversity and agriculture.
The loss of bees can result in decreased crop yields and a potential loss of biodiversity, affecting food security and ecosystems", he added.
Th Joysana Meetei emphasised the severity of the situation, stating, "The water level was so high that there was no time to rescue the bees" .
The Association underscored the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect bee population and their habitats to mitigate these impacts.