YFPHR opposes planned oil depot in Kangchup
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, January 30 2024:
The Youth's Forum for Protection of Human Rights (YFPHR) has raised serious concern over the state government s plan to establish a POL Depot of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) without obtaining prior, and informed consent from the affected community.
YFPHR, in a statement, said that it came to learn that the revenue department, on October 26, published a gazette announcing the Governor's order to lease an area measuring 2.60 acres at Kangchup foothills, under Kharang Koireng village, to BPCL for 30 years.
As per YFPHR's visit report, local clubs, organisations, and women's associations had expressed concern and opposed the proposed oil depot even before the government officially announced the matter.
The affected areas encompass a well-maintained playground, club office, pond, market shed, and some residential houses.
YFPHR emphasised that constructing an oil depot in a residential area necessitates a clear impact assessment, which the government has yet to fulfil.
In addition to the community concerns, YFPHR raised serious apprehensions about the potential threat to the right to life of the inhabitants of Kangchup Chingkhong, Phayeng, and other adjoining villages due to the ongoing conflict.
The organisation highlighted the risk of the proposed oil depot becoming a target in the conflict, similar to past incidents where water sources were deliberately contaminated.
In response to these concerns, YFPHR urged the state government to respect the rights of the people and obtain free, prior, and informed consent before proceeding with any projects or activities.
The organisation further called for the conduct of proper Environmental Impact Assessment, Human Rights Impact Assessment, and Cumulative Impact Assessment before initiating any projects in residential areas.
YFPHR appealed to the state government to promptly withdraw the lease order and cease the construction of the oil depot at Kangchup Chingkhong.