World Wetlands Day observed at Loktak Lake, Tokpaching
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal/Thoubal, February 02 2026: The Department of Geography, Manipur University, observed World Wetlands Day 2026 on Monday at the lakeshore of Loktak Lake, aligning the programme with the global theme "Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge: Celebrating Cultural Heritage".

The observance aimed to raise awareness on wetland conservation through community engagement while also understanding local perspectives on the preservation and restoration of Loktak Lake.

The programme was attended by teachers and students of the Department of Geography, Manipur University.

During the observance, faculty members and students interacted with local elders and community leaders to gain insights into the ecological challenges facing the lake.

Addressing the gathering, Oinam Rajesh, secretary of the All Loktak Lake Area Fishers Union Manipur (ALLAFUM), highlighted the deteriorating ecology of the lake and its direct impact on local livelihoods.

He noted that sources of pollution now include not only solid waste and plastics, but also biomedical waste and microplastics found in lake organisms.

He further suggested that persistent issues such as phumdi proliferation and declining water quality could be mitigated if the Ithai Barrage is opened for at least 90 days annually.

A lakeshore cleaning drive was also organised as part of the programme, during which recyclable plastic bottles and other waste materials were collected and deposited at designated collection centres.

Meanwhile, World Wetlands Day was also observed today at Tokpaching Primary School, organised by the Pumlen Lake Development Organisation (PLDO), under the aegis of Loktak Development Authority (LDA) and Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, Government of Manipur.

The programme was held under the theme "Celebrating Cultural Heritage" .

The event was attended by Kumam Jugeshor, retired principal of Kumbi College as chief guest; Oinam Bikram, president of PLDO as functional president; and Salam Khogendro, Asst Teacher at Tokpaching High School as guest of honour.

Speaking on the occasion, Kumam Jugeshor said that the conservation of Pumlen Pat requires collective responsibility and active participation of the people.

He said that the gradual degradation of the lake's natural structure poses a serious threat to its sustainability and ecosystem, and emphasised the need to urge the relevant authorities to include Pumlen Pat under the Ramsar list of wetlands of international importance.

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