World Tourism Day celebrated
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 27 2013 : Manipur Tourism Forum in association with Manipur Mountaineering and Trekking Association and Bishnupur District Canoeing and Kayaking Association has observed World Tourism Day Celebration 2013 under the theme "Tourism and water, protecting our common future" at Takmu Water Sports Complex, Sendra Moirang today.

As a part of the observance, a local boat race competition was held.

Prizes for photo competition held in connection with the World Tourism Day were distributed.

Speaking as chief guest of the occasion, T Mangibabu Singh, MLA Thanga A/C stressed on the changes in ecological balance due to dirtying of the Loktak Lake and deforestation.

"The idea of tourism which came in the minds of the people of hills and valley should be encouraged" .

Tourism is an industry that do not produce pollution and smoke.

Water is very essential not only for tourism but also for the environment.

There will be boost in the economy and employment when there is progress in tourism in the State, he said.

He went on to say that the various programs being taken up by the Government is for the welfare of the people and progress of the State.

The water level of Loktak is decreasing with only 5-6 feet deep in some area.

It is required to dug up the Lake to save it from going dry.

"Two or three machines are there to dug up shallow areas of the Lake and some more machines will also be bought", the MLA added.

During the occasion, Th Radheshyam, IPS, Founder Member Manipur Tourism Forum said, development of tourism is much needed for the improvement of State economy.

"The condition of Loktak Lake is more like a cancer patient struggling for life in the last stage of the disease.

However, the Lake can be saved only by the people" .

Asserting that World Tourism Day has been observed worldwide every year since September 27, 1980, Dr S Shyamjai Singh, Scientific Officer LDA stressed that Loktak Lake is not only a fresh water lake but has high biodiversity value.

"A lake has its lifespan and is mortal.

Our Lake is in the last stage now.

It will be dried up if a well management program is taken up to safeguard Loktak Lake", Dr Singh added.

Col Dhanajit Huidrom, Commanding Officer 6th Assam Rifles, Sendra also spoke at the occasion.

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