MDAVO decries likely inauguration of Mapithel dam, warns to oppose project
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, January 16 2018: The Mapithel Dam Affected Villages Organisation (MDAVO) has expressed serious concern over the probable inauguration of Mapithel dam (Thoubal Multipurpose Project) by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi as conveyed by WRD Minister Letpao Haokip on January 15 .

A press release issued by the organisation alleged that the plan to commission the dam has always been going on while the State Government has failed to address the long chronic issues of rehabilitation and resettlement for the affected villagers which violates the rights of the affected communities.

While the affected villagers have been expecting fair and positive outcome from the High Powered Committee (HPC), instituted on May 2 2017, no concrete initiatives have been taken up so far, the organisation lamented.

The MDAVO condemned the indifferent and inactive nature of the department concerned in dealing with the protracted issues of Mapithel dam, which will result in inviting further public agitation.

It stated that the official pronouncement of the Minister for probable inauguration the dam in the month of March also indicates disrespect of the order of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), Kolkata Bench, on December 6 which directed the Manipur Government to ensure full compliance of the conditions contained in the Forest Rights (Recognition of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional Forest Dwellers Right) Act 2006, within three months from the date of passing the order.

However, no necessary measures have been initiated by the Government to implement the said order till present.

The organisation further alleged that there is no holistic impact assessment and the project developers failed to take steps for recognizing rights of the affected communities over their land, forest, river and arrangement of alternative livelihood sources for all the affected villagers who sacrificed their invaluable ancestral homes, land, forest and river.

"The State Government is morally and procedurally responsible to take prompt steps to resolve the impending issues before the inauguration of the project.

Failing which, the affected villagers will be compelled to oppose the project", it warned.

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