Urgent need for conservation of Loktak, Sangai stressed
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, February 18 2025: Loktak Development Authority (LDA) chairman M Asnikumar has highlighted the pressing need for ecological restoration of Loktak Lake and the conservation of the endangered Sangai deer in his address at the 32nd foundation day of Environmental Social Reformation & Sangai Protection Forum (ESRSPF) held at Khordak village in Bishnupur district on Tuesday.

The anniversary event was attended by officials, conservationists, and community leaders, including chief conservator of forests (wildlife) Loijam Joykumar, environment & climate change director Tourangbam Brajakumar, State Wetland Authority technical committee chairman Dr Kh Sha-mungou, former president of ESRSPF T Budhi, United Clubs of Thanga president Oinam Maipakchao, womenfolk and youth representatives.

Urgent need for conservation of Loktak, Sangai stressed

Addressing the gathering, Asnikumar expressed appreciation for ESRSPF's dedicated efforts over the past 32 years in protecting the state's ecological heritage.

Reflecting on his long association with the organisation, he reiterated the critical importance of safeguarding Loktak Lake and its fragile ecosystem, which serves as the last natural refuge for the endangered Sangai deer.

He emphasised that the degradation of Loktak's biodiversity, particularly in Keibul Lamjao National Park, poses a significant threat not only to wildlife but also to the livelihoods of local communities.

He pointed to the ecological impact of the Ithai Barrage as a major factor contributing to habitat destruction, disrupting the delicate balance of the lake's unique floating biomass and endangering its flora and fauna.

Stressing the urgency of conservation efforts, he stated that the LDA, in collaboration with the wildlife wing of the Forest Department, and Directorate of Environment & Climate Change, is actively working on habitat restoration.

However, he underscored that government initiatives alone cannot succeed without the active participation of local communities and called for collective responsibility in protecting Loktak, which he called "our mother lake".

During the programme, he distributed fisherman cards to fishers from Nongmaikhong.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to intensify conservation efforts, engage communities, and implement sustainable solutions to ensure the long-term protection of Loktak Lake and the endangered Sangai deer.