Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 30:
Though the incessant pre-monsoon downpour that is being experienced for the last few days has brought some relief to the people from the scorching sun, it has posed a serious threat to Loktak lake, the biggest fresh water lake in the eastern region.
The garbages of the city area which are dumped in Nambul river have started draining into the lake, thereby negating the efforts being made to save the lake from further degradation.
North Eastern Council (NEC) had recently announced a Rs 48 crore project for the development of the lake.
Earlier, Loktak Development Authority (LDA) was entrusted with the task of improving the condition and environment of the lake with funding from Government of Canada under the India-Canada Environment Facilities (ICEF) pact.
The garbages brought down by Nambul river are passing through Yangoi river before being deposited at Loktak lake.
One Sagolsem Yaima Devi who has been net-fishing at Yangoi river for the last 4-5 years said large quantity waste materials including plastic bottles, polythene, etc have been brought down though the rain started just a few days back.
In the past even carcasses of dog, pig and even human beings have been brought down by current of Nambul river, she added.
Despite the threat being posed to the lake, the dredger machines of LDA ,which could be pressed in service for picking up the garbages at Yangoi Maril so as to prevent from depositing the same at Loktak, are seen still lying idle.
It may be noted here plans are being made for development of Nambul river as part of the National River Conservation project under Central funding.