Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Imphal: The Loktak Development Authority, under the guidance of Hon’ble CM Shri N. Biren Singh, provided food grains and essential items to the fishermen of Champu Khangpok Floating Village in Loktak Lake today.
For the past two weeks, the fishing community of Champu Khangpok has been stranded by thick phumdis due to strong winds, enduring significant hardship. This dense floating vegetation has isolated them from the rest of the lake, leaving them without essential supplies such as food, clean water, and medical necessities.
Champu Khangpok Floating Village is of immense cultural and heritage significance, and the LDA is working to develop it as an iconic heritage floating village, preserving both the village and its residents along with their rich indigenous knowledge.
Unable to fish, their primary source of livelihood and food, the community has faced severe challenges, particularly in caring for their children. The combination of isolation, lack of supplies, and inability to fish has created a dire situation for these resilient people.
The essential supplies were distributed to the villagers by Hon’ble Chairman Shri Asnikumar Moirangthem and officials from the Loktak Development Authority (LDA). The distribution took place in a spirit of solidarity and support, acknowledging the severe hardships faced by the community.
In this challenging time, the LDA remains committed to supporting these indigenous fishing communities, who have played a crucial role in conserving Loktak Lake. Their contributions to preserving the lake’s ecosystem are invaluable. By providing these supplies, the LDA aims to alleviate some of their immediate burdens and strengthen the partnership in safeguarding Loktak Lake’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.
Chairman Shri M. Asnikumar expressed gratitude to CM Shri N. Biren Singh for his timely intervention, stating, “The fishing community of Champu Khangpok has always been integral to our conservation efforts. In this hour of need, I am glad we can support them. Together, we can protect the rich biodiversity and ecosystem of Loktak Lake and improve the quality of life for those who depend on it for sustenance.”
