Asem Bhakta, Special Correspondent North East
Thanga, Manipur:
Development without due regard for environmental wellbeing has placed Loktak Lake in a precarious situation. It is time for government organizations and local communities to unite in addressing this challenge, emphasized Shri M. Asnikumar Singh, Chairman of the Loktak Development Authority (LDA), during the State-level seminar on “Loktak Lake – Challenges Ahead,” held in Haoreng Chingang, Thanga, as part of the day-long celebrations marking Loktak Day.
Loktak Day, celebrated annually on ‘Mera Purnima,’ highlights the significance of Loktak Lake, often referred to as the lifeline of Manipur. This Ramsar site holds immense ecological, cultural, and economic value for the people of the region. Loktak Lake, with its unique floating phumdis and rich biodiversity, is a symbol of the state’s natural heritage, and its conservation is essential not only for the environment but for the wellbeing of the communities that rely on it.
As part of the 35th Loktak Day celebrations, the LDA reaffirmed its commitment to preserving this precious wetland. The day’s events began with the ‘Run for Loktak,’ organized by The Youth Development Association, Ningthoukhong, and sponsored by LDA and NHPC. Flagged off by LDA Chairman Shri M. Asnikumar Singh in the presence of MLA of Kumbi S. Premchandra Singh and SE Shri Ng. Sanajaoba Singh, the run aimed to raise awareness about Loktak Lake and inspire the youth to actively engage in its conservation.
Following the run, a traditional Puja was held to honour Loktak Ema Lairembi, the guardian deity of the lake, along with the ceremonial release of fish fingerlings at Loktak Lairembi Ground. Organized by the Loktak Lake Development Organization, Manipur (LLDOM), in partnership with LDA, the event was supported by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur, which provided the fingerlings. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh, the department released a total of five lakh fingerlings into Loktak Lake and the associated Takmu Pat wetland to symbolize the restoration of the lake’s ecosystem.
The celebrations continued at Thanga Higher Secondary School, where Hon’ble Chairman Shri M. Asnikumar Singh was joined by Shri L. Joykumar Singh, IFS, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (Research & Planning), Chief Conservator of Forest (wildlife, territorial circle I & II, administration & planning) and other dignitaries. The event featured cultural performances by students, including a heart touching folk song by Miss Nganthoibi Ningthoujam celebrating Loktak Ema, and the prize distribution for the painting competition held on World Environment Day 2024. Stressing the importance of youth participation in environmental conservation, Shri L. Joykumar remarked, “The students are our future, and they must take the lead in the conservation of Loktak Lake.” The Hon’ble Chairman also led the students in an oath to protect the environment, including Loktak Lake.
The highlight of the day was the State-level seminar on “Loktak Lake – Challenges Ahead,” where esteemed speakers such as Prof. Ksh. Lalbihari Singh (Life Science Department, Manipur University), Shri K. Jugeshwore (Environmentalist), and Shri Ng. Sanajaoba Meitei (SE, LDA) discussed the lake’s pressing issues. Prof. Lalbihari Singh spoke about the shifting dynamics of Loktak, Shri K. Jugeshwore addressed the impact of the Ithai Barrage, and Shri Ng. Sanajaoba highlighted the ongoing conservation efforts and challenges faced by the LDA. The seminar drew hundreds of fishing community members from across the Loktak area, including community leaders from Thanga, Kumbi, Hiyanglam, Sugnu, Mayang Imphal constituencies, with women making up the majority of participants – an inspiring testament to their pivotal role in the movement to save Loktak Lake.
In his concluding remarks, Shri Asnikumar Singh emphasized the urgency of unified action to save Loktak Lake. “The LDA alone cannot preserve the lake. It is time for the people of Manipur to wake up to the threats facing Loktak. Public participation and the adoption of sustainable practices are essential for the lake’s survival,” he urged.
The Chairman also outlined various measures taken by both the Union and state governments to protect Loktak and its surrounding communities, including the approval of the Integrated Management Plan (IMP), the ongoing boundary demarcation process, the need for an environmental impact assessment of the Loktak hydro project, efforts to foster community participation and close engagement among stakeholders.
“As we commemorate Loktak Day, let us renew our commitment to restoring Loktak Lake to its pristine glory under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the able guidance of Chief Minister Shri N. Biren Singh. Together, we can ensure that Loktak Lake continues to thrive as an iconic wetland, a symbol of ecological harmony, and a vital source of life for generations to come,” concluded the Chairman.
The LDA extends its deepest gratitude to the Loktak Lake Development Organization, Manipur (LLDOM), the People’s Committee on Restoration of Loktak Lake & its Associated Wetlands (PCRLAWM), community leaders, youth, and the people of Thanga for their active participation in the celebrations and their continued efforts in conserving this invaluable natural treasure.
