World Wetlands Day Importance of collective efforts to preserve wetlands underscored
Source: The Sangai Express

Bishnupur, February 02 2024: In a collaborative effort, Loktak Development Authority (LDA) and fishing community of Champu Khangpok floating village nestled on Loktak Lake celebrated World Wetlands Day today on the theme 'Wetlands and Human Wellbeing' .

Moirangthem Asnikumar Singh, Loktak Development Authority (LDA) Chairman; Ng Sanajaoba Meetei, SE of LDA; Ch Simatendro, SDO Moirang; Linda Ningombam, Deputy Director of MoBC; Kamesh Salam, renowned Bamboo Expert and other dignitaries graced the occasion and conveyed a collective commitment towards the preservation of Loktak Lake.

Later the LDA Chairman and the dignitaries distributed solar lamps, water filters, one generator set and one fibre canoe funded by the MoBC Department with an aim to enhance the living conditions of the community while promoting sustainable practices.

World Wetlands Day Importance of collective efforts to preserve wetlands underscored

Speaking at the occasion, the LDA Chairman stressed that Champu Khangpok village plays a pivotal role in preserving age-old traditions associated with Loktak Lake.

Recognizing the cultural and ecological importance of this floating village, collective efforts are crucial to ensure the sustainable future of Loktak, he added.

In a significant announcement, the LDA Chairman pledged support for the construction of a special floating school for Champu Khangpok village with funding allocated by the Government of India through the State Education Department.

Plans also include the installation of bio-digester toilets for each khangpok shang (huts) of Champu Khangpok, contributing to improved sanitation facilities.

Acknowledging the necessity of a comprehensive long-term plan for Loktak Lake's preservation, he emphasized the significance of the Integrated Management Plan (IMP) as a crucial stride in the right direction.

Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of community engagement in policy formulation and implementation and stated that the fishing community of Champu Khangpok has been a loyal partner in LDA's endeavours to conserve and protect Loktak.

He also appealed to the fishing community to refrain from illegal fishing and hunting of water birds in Loktak Lake and called for responsible practices in alignment with the ongoing efforts to protect the diverse ecosystem of the lake.

Meanwhile, the observation of World Wetlands Day was also held at Thanga Haoreng Chingyang today jointly organised by the Loktak Fisheries Welfare Association, Centre for Research and Advocacy Manipur, United Youth Voluntary Council and Go Green Group.

Speaking at the occasion, Loktak Fisheries Welfare Association general secretary Heisnam Chaoba underscored the need of making collective efforts for preserving the wetlands.

Raising serious concerns on the changing ecosystem of Loktak lake and its impacts on the lives of the fishing community of the lake, he highlighted that timely and dedicated measures should be taken up to preserve the Loktak lake by all sections of the society.

He further mentioned about the major impacts of Ithai Barrage project on the ecosystem of Loktak lake and said that the depths of many rivers have decreased considerably due to the project.

Considering the declining condition of the ecosystem of wetlands, he urged all to put in sincere efforts to prevent further degradation for the welfare of all.

Chairperson of Manipur Commission on Protection of Child Rights Pradip Keisam, United Voluntary Youth Council secretary Kangjam Maharabi, Centre for Research and Advocacy Manipur secretary Jiten Yumnam, folk artist Nganthoi Khumanthem and Go Green representative Heisnam Russel also attended the event as the presidium members.

During the observation, discussions on the theme 'Wetlands and Human Wellbeing' were held and reviewed the changes in the lives of the people who are dependent on Loktak lake for their livelihood.