Loktak conservation : CM proposes decisive action plan
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 15 2023: Chief Minister N Biren has proposed a decisive plan of action for conservation of Loktak Lake.

The decisive action proposed by the Chief Minister included deploying an expert team from ADB or constituted by State authority which is deemed fit to assess the Loktak Hydroelectric Project's impact, conduct a thorough review, and secure necessary environmental clearances at the earliest.

With Chief Minister N Biren in the chair, a joint inter-departmental meeting was held today in the Cabinet Hall of the Chief Minister's Secretariat on 'Modernisation of Loktak Hydro-Electric Project-Sustainability of Loktak Lake' .

Attended by key Ministers, MLAs, and authorities, the meeting delved into the adverse impacts of the project, particularly focusing on the consequences of construction of Ithai Barrage.

Loktak conservation : CM proposes decisive action plan

The highlight of the meeting was the comprehensive presentation by the Loktak Development Authority, outlining the severe impacts of the Loktak Hydro-Electric Project, with a specific emphasis on Ithai Barrage's consequences.

This included stagnation in the lake's water level to a higher regime, land inundation beyond the confines of the lake, and the critical ecological, social, and economic challenges faced by local communities.

The meeting agreed to undertake a boundary demarcation exercise of Loktak Lake in consultation with MLAs concerned and the same task was entrusted to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Boundary Demarcation on Loktak Lake.

Recognizing the significance of Loktak Lake and associated wetlands in ecological, socio-economic and cultural aspects, Chief Minister N Biren expressed deep concern over their deteriorating state.

Strategies for the cleanup of rivers flowing into the lake were discussed, and the Chief Minister directed the LDA and Environment & Ecology Dept to expedite the cleanup promptly.

Forest, Environment and Climate Change Minister Th Biswajit Singh recommended acquiring extra power alongside the complimentary power allocation for Manipur through a new power purchasing arrangement.

Works Minister K Govindas Singh underscored the critical issue of sedimentation and the growing need for a comprehensive conservation approach.

He advocated conducting an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) while halting the modernization efforts.

The Chief Minister suggested renegotiating the power benefits granted to Manipur for a higher percentage.

N Biren emphasised on the need for overall ecosystem restoration and conservation of Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only natural habitat of world famous Sangai Deer.

Proactively reaching out to the citizens, specially those living on the periphery of Loktak Lake, Biren urged active engagement in the conservation initiatives spearheaded by the Loktak Development Authority.

He stated that prioritizing conservation of Loktak is paramount.

LDA Chairman M Asnikumar highlighted the loss of large agricultural land, community displacement and ecological losses due to the Loktak Hydro-Electric Project.

He proposed initiation of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) by constituting a committee, putting the modernization of Loktak Hydel Project on hold until Environmental Clearance is issued.

Further, he informed that the appraisal of the Integrated Management Plan (IMP) for Loktak Lake is complete and likely to be approved by the MoEF&CC which will be vital in the conservation mission.

Water Resources Minister Awangbow Newmai, PHED Minister L Susindro Meetei, Fishery Minister H Dingo, MLAs of Thanga, Moirang, Mayang Imphal, Wangoi, Oinam, Kumbi, Chief Secretary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest cum Chief Wildlife Warden, Administrative Secretaries and HoDs of concern departments (Power, Agriculture, Fishery, Revenue, Environment & Ecology, LDA) etc too attended the meeting.