Manipur’s Loktak Fishermen Raise Concerns Over Government’s Push for Inland Waterways Project

by Fishery News
Published: Last Updated on

The All Loktak Lake Areas Fishers Union, Manipur (ALLAFUM), has voiced opposition to the Manipur government’s unilateral decision to advance the proposed Loktak inland waterways improvement project. The fishermen’s union expressed concern over potential adverse effects on the ecology of Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in South Asia, and the traditional livelihoods of numerous fishing families residing in its peripheral areas.

ALLAFUM criticized the government for not consulting the local fishing community, primary stakeholders in the project, during state-level discussions. Secretary Oinam Rajen highlighted that recent interaction sessions organized by the Manipur transport department deliberately excluded Loktak fishermen, raising questions about the project’s inclusivity and transparency.

The fishermen’s union emphasized that the government’s actions contradicted earlier opposition voiced by Loktak fishermen against the inland waterways improvement project. Despite a directive from the Manipur High Court in 2022 and Supreme Court directions to maintain the status of Ramsar sites like Loktak Lake, the government is moving forward with the project, disregarding ecological concerns.

The Loktak Lake has been embroiled in controversy due to disruptions caused by the Ithai Barrage of the Loktak hydroelectric power project since 1983, negatively impacting biodiversity and fishermen’s livelihoods. ALLAFUM has strongly opposed the government’s initiative, calling for a more inclusive and environmentally conscious approach in decision-making processes regarding Loktak Lake and its surroundings.

 

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