Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, November 16:
Endorsing the demand of the Mapithel Dam Affected Villages' Organisation (MDAVO) for a comprehensive review of the Thoubal Multipurpose Project to ensure its compliance with environmental and social norms that emerged after the Project was cleared for construction in 1980, Citizens' Concern for Dams and Development (CCDD) has categorically stated that all the construction activities should be stopped henceforth unless the demand is considered.
In a statement, CCDD Co-Chairperson Aram Pamei noted that after more than 20 years of construction, the dam is still incomplete, and has found to lack sound environmental, social, economic, safety, quality studies and implementation.
It is also revealed that the rehabilitation and resettlement component has been completely neglected by dam authorities, Pamei said, while pointing out that CAG report that stated clearly that there has been corruption and misappropriation of funds.
The same CAG report also have found that there was no rigid quality control of the dam.
In yet another revelation it also has been found that the dam authorities have not obtained the mandatory environmental and forest clearance, Pamei said while quoting the letter written by Chief Conservator of Forest of the Govt of Manipur to the Chief Engineer (IFCD) [Memo no.3/39/2006-07/CCF(T&P)/TMP] in this regard stating "I'm to inform you to stop any further construction of Thoubal Multipurpose Project and also to submit detailed report/explanation as required �".
In other words the dam authorities have failed in all aspects of dam building that necessitates this call for a comprehensive review, Pamei maintained.
Asserting that the State Govt is trying to complete the construction without taking this dangerous negligence into consideration, Pamei said CCDD joins the affected people in demanding the construction activites be stopped unless there is a comprehensive review.