Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Imphal, April 06:
Mapithel Dam Affected Villages Organisation (MDAVO) has expressed its concern that the Manipur Govt has continued to disregard the consistent call of the affected villagers of the Mapithel Dam of the Thoubal multipurpose project to ensure its compliance with environmental, social and human rights norms.
MDAVO said that the construction of Mapithel dam of the Thoubal multipurpose project started without conducting a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment and without the free prior and informed consent of the affected villagers.
Chairman of the MDAVO R Kasar in a statement said that the Thoubal multipurpose project should be reviewed thoroughly with the formation of an expert committee and the 'Detailed' Environment Impact Assessment, Environment Management Plan, Rehabilitation Plan be prepared with full consultation and active participation of affected villagers in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act, 1986 and its Amendments.
It calls for the withdrawal of all military deployment from Mapithel dam site and to exercise fair and democratic process with due consideration and sensitivity to people's aspirations in matters affecting their lives and survival, including development issues.