Manipur Chief Minister Voices Concerns on Environmental Issues
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Synopsis
On February 2, Manipur CM N. Biren Singh raised alarms over serious environmental issues including the degradation of ecosystems and the loss of water sources due to extensive deforestation. He emphasized the need for groundwater use and highlighted multiple state initiatives for rejuvenating water bodies.
Key Takeaways
- Concerns over environmental degradation.
- Importance of groundwater utilization.
- Restoration projects for Yaral-pat and Lamphelpat Waterbody.
- Beautification efforts for Imphal River and Kongba River.
- Call for public support in environmental initiatives.
Imphal, Feb 2 (NationPress) Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh expressed his deep worries regarding the environmental degradation and the disappearance of water sources caused by extensive deforestation.
Emphasizing the importance of utilizing groundwater, the Chief Minister announced that over 500 ground drilling pumps have been installed through the Minor Irrigation Department.
During a function commemorating World Wetlands Day 2025 at Leishang Hiden, Canchipur, he pointed out the state government's efforts to revitalize water bodies.
He mentioned that the restoration of Yaral-pat has been accomplished. The rejuvenation of the Lamphelpat Waterbody project is underway with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 650 crores.
The Chief Minister revealed that the beautification of various rivers, including the Imphal River and Kongba River, is planned with a budget of Rs 86 crore.
Singh called on the citizens to support the state government's initiatives aimed at protecting the indigenous communities and other developmental projects.
He expressed his personal concern for the environment, recalling the poor state of the Nambul River several years ago.
The cleaning efforts for the river commenced when he served as the Forest and Environment Minister (in the Congress government) in 2004.
Since taking office as Chief Minister of Manipur in 2017, the work on the rejuvenation and conservation of the Nambul River has continued, with household waste along the river being transported through pipelines to a treatment facility at Mongsangei, he stated.
A report from the Manipur government indicated that deforestation, driven by extensive poppy cultivation, has led to numerous detrimental effects on the ecosystem, including soil erosion, biodiversity loss, and shifts in the local climate.
