Imphal, September 03: Amid plentiful killing, violent incidents and tumultuous situations besieging naturally blessed Manipur throughout the year, the scenic Seloi Langmai Ecological Park beckons visitors.

Obviously hidden from the public attention due to the society gripped in the vicious cycle of killings, bandhs and disturbances of all kinds this 350x 120 square feet location developed on the lower reaches of Nongmaiching (Baruni hills) in Imphal East district is draped with imported grass, appreciably nurtured rose garden, a central pool with fountain and children's park that could provide respite to the amusement starved public, even ifmomentarily.

The Park is said to have been developed by Eastern Ecology Conservation Organisation (EECO) since the early part of the new millennium.

Covering a total area of 13 acres, the Park's developers confided of plans to add a toy train replicating the Hiyang Hiren used during the reign of kings in the periphery of the Park complex besides more water sprinkling system with the nearby Laphupokpi canal as the water source.

Other facilities currently under development at the sprawling green zone include a perched binocular view point, a rest hut, a large resting shed for picnickers built tan the mode! of the traditional Meitei Yumjoo and a memorial complex of King Charairongba.

As per account of EECO secretary H Sunil the developers actually planned for dedication of the Park to the public this year but certain constraints infant deferment to next year.

Recounting that EECO along with its 25 like-minded members were initially concentrating on developing the site.as fruit and tree growing complex, the secretary confided that it was only some years back that the concept of Seloi Langmai Eco Park dawned upon the members.

Experts of the Agriculture and Horticulture Department are said to be extending their expertise as the Park's consultants.

A visibly elated Sunil further informed that this year many revellers flocked to the Park during the Chetraoba festivals and Baruni pilgrimage compared to the picturesque location being captured in lenses of a few film-makers.

He also opined that in case Government approves EETO's vision and concept ascending to the annual pilgrimage peak of Nongmaiching (Baruni hills) from the Khaiiong side with the Park as the stairway would be much less sturdy besides the pilgrims enjoying pleasant sights.

Another attractive facet to the Park with a historical relevance is the religiously preserved site of bricks piled about 400 years ago during the reign of King Charairongba for construction purpose.

The bricks would remain as it is while a monument would be developed at near the site, Sunil maintained.

Disclosing that plans are afoot to convert a nearby hill-hump (Shamu Makok) to an adventure sports facility, the secretary further conceded that there is neither any intimation of interest from the Government side nor is the Park receiving any direct financial assistance.

The Park can be accessed via Laphupat through the four kilometre from Kongba-Keikhu road.

Ironically, the Eco-Tourism Park at the nearby Yaralpat where an 8-hole golf course is also being planned is yet to take off inspite of the fact that foundation stone for the same fecility had been laid by the former Governor Dr SS 2006.

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