Cycle rallies bat for safe wildlife, environment
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 06 2024:
In celebration of the 70th Wildlife Week, Wildlife Wing of the Forest Department on Sunday collaborated with the Central Forest Division in organising a cycle rally to promote wildlife conservation and environmental awareness with similar rallies also held at the district level.
Over 210 cyclists, including students of MAMBA, Manipur University's Department of Zoology, DM university, RIMS doctors and groups like Doctors on Pedal and Team 195 bpm, along with officials of Imphal East and Imphal West district administrations, participated in the event.
The rally organised to raise awareness on importance of protecting wildlife and preserving natural habitats, was flagged off by chief conservator of forests Longjam Joykumar.
The 18-kilometre rally from Manipur Forest Training School, Luwangshangbam concluded at the Manipur Zoological Garden, Iroisemba after passing through Minuthong Hatta, Sanjenthong, and Kangla Western Gate.
Speaking on the occasion, Joykumar emphasised importance of the rally in fostering community responsibility for wildlife.
He pointed out that the rally serves as a reminder that wildlife is an essential part of the ecosystem, conservation of which entails sanely human activities.
Conservator of Forests (Southern Circle) Sanajaoba Singh, also spoke about the vital role of youth in wildlife conservation.
Wildlife Week, observed annually in India from October 2 to 8, aims to engage citizens in activities that highlight the importance of conserving the nation's rich wildlife heritage.
This year's cycle rally was a key feature of the 70th Wildlife Week celebrations, aligning with the Fit India Movement advocated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Meanwhile, the Forest Department extended heartfelt gratitude to all participants, volunteers, police department, Traffic SP, CMO of Imphal East and Imphal West districts, and partners who contributed to the event's success.
Thoubal Forest Division also observed wildlife week marked with a similar awareness rally participated by around 100 cyclists.
The rally, held under the theme "Wildlife Conservation through Co-existence" was flagged off by Forest and Environment special secretary Rk Amarjit from Waithou Chiru and concluded at the Divisional Forest Office, Thoubal.
The rally was also attended by range forest officer Ningthoujam Deepa, range officer Dineschandra Salam from Thoubal, range officer Laishram Dinesh from Kakching and various beat officers from the division.
On the other hand, the wildlife wing of the forest department in association with Adventure and Mountain Biking Association organised a cycle rally as part of the 70th wildlife week from Manipur Forest Training School, Koirengei till Manipur Zoological Garden, Iroisemba via Chingmeirong, North AOC, Hatta, Konung Mamang, Sanjenthong and Uripok.
Around 200 cyclists took part in the rally.
Meanwhile, Lamphel Police Station has been recognised as one of the recipients of the State Level Wildlife Protection Incentive Award 2024.According to a statement, chief conservator of forests/wildlife L Joykumar Singh, said that the award, presented in connection with the 70th Wildlife Week celebrations, will also be handed over to People for Animals, Bungpa Khullen Village Authority, Indigo Airlines Imphal and forest guard Ngangbam Satrajit Singh.
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