Imphal, July 09: Neglected for long inspite of close association with the history of Manipur and its people, Lamphelpat is likely to get is due share of attention with plan of developing it as an important eco-tourism and heritage centres being floated.

According to an official source, Lamphelpat is among the 27 lakes chosen by the Union Ministry of Forest and Environment for development under its National Lake Conservation Plan.

The Ministry has already earmarked Rs 142 crores for development of these lakes located at different parts of the country.

As for development of Lamphelpat, the official informed that State Envi- ronment and Ecology Wing would be taking up the proposed Lamphelpat Wetland Conservation Plan at a total estimated cost of Rs 250 lakhs.

State Government has also agreed to provide Rs 75 lakhs as its share for the plan, the source added.

Besides preservation of the unique flora and fauna of the lake with a view to develop it as an important eco-tourism centre, the plan envisages setting up facilities for water storage, water transport, ground water recharge and discharge, sediment tapping, etc, the official said.

These would also help in preventing frequent occurrence of flood and stabilization of local climatic condition as well as controlling pollution in Greater Imphal area, the source added.

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