Phumdi proliferation, a menace in the Loktak Lake, Manipur
Yumlembam Jackie Singh / Huirem Bharati *
Manipur is located between 23º51'– 25º41'N & 93º2'– 94º47' E. Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater natural wetland in north-east India occupying an area of 286 sq. km. Loktak Lake plays an important role in the ecological and economic security of the region. It has been referred to as the lifeline of the people of Manipur due to its importance in socio-economic and cultural life. Based on its rich and unique biodiversity, as well as socio economic importance, the lake was included in 1990 as a Wetland of International Importance under Ramsar Convention. Thick floating mats of weeds covered with soil, called 'Phumdi', is a characteristic feature of the lake. The largest among the Phumdis is the Keibul Lamjao National Park (40.5km²).
Phumdi proliferation: a serious problem:
The excessive growth of Phumdis is seriously impacting the lake ecosystem and consequently affecting the local communities. Salvinia sp and Paragrass contribute substantially to the formation of Phumdis. Phumdi habitat is spreading rapidly, forming more than 70% of the total area thereby threatening the whole ecosystem of the lake. Frequent movement of Phumdi according to wind direction also destroys the fishing equipment, put into water for fishing. During the 70s, fishermen used to push down the Phumdis and water hyacinth of Loktak Lake through Khordak channel to the downstream of Manipur River. The process has been completely stopped for the last more than two decades due to construction of Ithai barrage across Manipur River
Phumdis can be utilised as a potential income generating source for the people. Phumdis can be used for the production of fodder and fuels. Phumdis waste extraction and processing would not only help in protecting the lake from the adverse effect of Phumdis proliferation and maintaining the ecological balance of the lake, but will also help in converting this waste into wealth. This, in turn, will give job opportunities and ways to some income generating activity for improving livelihood of the surrounding people. Due to the availability of huge quantities of floating biomass in the Loktak Lake, the extraction and disposal of Phumdis from the lake can be an attractive proposition for the benefit of local population. Scientific studies need to be carried out in this area to ascertain public health safety and to make the maximum utilisation of the resources. Awareness should be given to the local people on how these Phumdis can be beneficially utilised.
* Yumlembam Jackie Singh / Huirem Bharati contributes to e-pao.net regularly. Yumlembam Jackie Singh is at Fisheries College & Research Institute , Tuticorin, Tamilnadu and Huirem Bharati is with College of Fisheries, CAU, Lembucherra, Tripura West. The writer can be contacted at zackienc(at)gmail(dot)com
This article was webcasted on March 04th, 2010.
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