Imphal, Aug 06: Experts have opined that construction of Tipaimukh Dam would not only affect the ecology and environment of the North East region, but also sow the seeds of discord among the various ethnic groups of people living in the region.

Taking part in a 'Media consultation programme on implications of Tipaimukh Dam' organised by Citizens' Concern for Dams and Development (CCDD) at Hotel Nirmala today, the experts observed that the Government of Manipur and Government of India should reconsider proposal of constructing Tipaimukh Dam in view of the impact it would not only on the ecology and environment of the North East region but also in the relationship of the various groups of people living in the region.

CCDD chairperson asserted that the Tipaimukh project is being taken up by the Government of India against the aspiration of the people.

Manipur would be receiving only 12 percent of the total 401.25 MW to be generated by the project out of which some percentage would also be given to Mizoram.

So surrendering around 7500 sq km of land of Manipur for such a project is not acceptable.

Prof W Biswanath of Life Science Department, MU pointed out that after the submergence of the catchment area, many endangered flora and fauna including rare species of fishes would be lost forever.

While informing that the North East region has been already declared as a hotspot of bio-diversity in the world , Biswanath said big dam could not be constructed in such hotspot region.

Registrar of Manipur University MU Dr RK Ranjan said the report of the Government that the dam would be beneficial to the people is a complete hogwash.

He said, warnings have already been sounded all over the world against construction of big dam.

So the efforts being made by the Government of India to go ahead with the construction of Tipaimukh dam is undemocratic, he said, adding that instead of big dam, people are in favour of micro-hydel projects.

Prof S Ibotombi Singh of Life Science Department,.

MU noted that north east region is one of the six seismic zones of the world.

But the MoU signed with NEEPCO did not mention who would compensate the people of the loss to be suffered in case the dam is destroy in earthquake.

Co-chairperson of Action Committee Against Tipaimukh Dam Aram Pamei said Tipaimukh dam would dislocate the natural drainage system of the North East region.

Giving his observation, AMWJU president Bijoy Kakchingtabam who chaired session, said there is the need to review the proposal of constructing the Tipaimukh and Manipur Govt should facilitate an open discussion with the experts in a transparent manner before going ahead with the project.

He further observed that the anti-dam protestors also need to sensitise the people on the issue.

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