Trapped by Phumdi, Champu Khangpok receives aid from LDA
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, August 03 2024: The Loktak Development Authority (LDA), under the directive of chief minister N Biren, distributed food grains and essential supplies to the beleaguered fishing community of Champu Khangpok floating village in Loktak Lake on Saturday.

This intervention comes as the villagers have been facing severe hardships due to being trapped by thick phumdis for the past two weeks.

The Champu Khangpok floating village, known for its cultural and heritage significance, has been isolated by dense floating vegetation known as phumdis, driven into the area by strong winds.

This natural barrier has cut off the community from the rest of the lake, leaving the villagers stranded and struggling in having access to basic necessities.

Over the past fortnight, the villagers have faced dwindling supplies of food, clean water, and medical necessities, compounding the already challenging conditions.

Fishing, the primary livelihood for the residents of Champu Khangpok, has been rendered impossible due to the blockade, further exacerbating their plight.

The inability to fish has not only deprived the community of their main source of income but also left them without their essential food supply.

The situation has been particularly dire for the children in the community, who are the most vulnerable during such crises.

Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Loktak Development Authority, led by its chairman Asnikumar Moirangthem, took swift action to provide much-needed relief.

The distribution of food grains and essential items to the residents was carried out in a spirit of solidarity, aimed at easing the immediate burdens faced by the villagers.

During the distribution event, which was held in the village, Asnikumar emphasised the critical role that the fishing community has been playing in the conservation efforts of Loktak Lake.

"The fishing community of Champu Khangpok has always been a vital partner in our mission to protect and preserve Loktak Lake's unique ecosystem.

In their hour of need, it is our responsibility to support them, and I am glad we are able to do so.

Together, we can continue our work to safeguard the rich biodiversity of Loktak Lake while also improving the living conditions for those who depend on it," he said.

LDA has also reiterated its commitment to the long-term development of Champu Khangpok floating village as an iconic heritage site.

By preserving the village and its unique way of life, the LDA aims to protect the wealth of indigenous knowledge that has been passed down through generations.

The authority is actively working on initiatives that will not only enhance the quality of life for the villagers but also contribute to the sustainable conservation of Loktak Lake.

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