Reviving Lamphelpat: A triumph for conservation in Manipur

GUWAHATI: Lamphelpat, once a majestic lake in Manipur but relegated to the annals of history is now undergoing a remarkable revival, thanks to the Rs 650 crore Lamphelpat Waterbody Project initiated by the Manipur Water Resources Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Jal Shakti.

The primary objective of this ambitious project, as articulated by Remmei Alemmei, Chief Engineer of the Manipur Water Resources Department, is to develop Integrated Flood Risk Management (IFRM), and ensure water security in the state’s Imphal Valley.

With a staggering water storage capacity of 124 million cubic metres, the Lamphelpat water body is poised to provide potable water to over four lakh residents of the Imphal Valley through the Public Health Engineering Department (PHED).

Moreover, this rejuvenation endeavour is not merely about bolstering water resources but it also entails preserving the ecological integrity of the Nambul River, enhancing aesthetic values, and promoting eco-tourism potential in the state’s capital Imphal.

There have already been promising signs of ecological revival, with increased sightings of migratory and resident birds flocking to the water body.

An Imphal-based nature conservation and wildlife protection group, in collaboration with the Manipur Central Forest Division, conducted bird counts in the Lamphelpat water body which revealed a significant upsurge in bird population as compared to the previous years.

This year’s count surpassed 5,000 birds, indicating a marked improvement in the health of the water body and the surrounding ecosystem.

The group reported that in 2023, they counted 2460 birds of 47 different species, whereas in January this year, the count surged to 5514 birds of 32 species.

This upward trend in bird numbers is indicative of the improving health condition of the water body.

Moreover, their data revealed a consistent annual increase in both migratory and resident bird populations over the past three years.

In 2021, the count stood at 1194 birds representing 30 species, which then rose to 3294 birds encompassing 37 species in 2022.

Remmei noted that the ongoing dredging and vegetation marsh clearing, including the removal of phumdis, is being diligently carried out by a Kolkata-based company.

The commendable efforts of the Manipur government in wetland conservation have garnered widespread acclaim.

Tourangbam Brajakumar, Director of Manipur Environment and Climate Change hailed the timely action as crucial in combating the alarming decline of wetlands in the state.

Brajakumar said that with only 119 wetlands remaining out of the original 550, the need for conservation efforts cannot be overstated.

He highlighted the primary factors contributing to the decline of wetlands, including the transportation of eroded soil from deforested hills through rivers, siltation caused by improper land use practices, the encroachment of urbanisation, indiscriminate dumping of urban waste into water bodies, and the overarching impact of climate change.

Brajakumar emphasised the critical importance of wetlands for ecological health, underscoring the government’s prioritisation of rejuvenating six wetlands out of the 24 identified for conservation efforts.

“Wetlands play a pivotal role in maintaining ecosystem balance. They purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide, replenish underground water sources, mitigate flash floods, alleviate water scarcity issues, and sustain a diverse array of life forms, including humans. By preserving wetlands, we amplify these invaluable benefits,” Brajakumar added.

The Lamphelpat Waterbody Project comprises six key components, ranging from flood control measures and catchment area management to the promotion of eco-tourism activities. Beyond mitigating flood risks and ensuring climate resilience, the project aims to generate a host of socio-cultural, economic and environmental benefits that will enrich the lives of the residents of Imphal and the visitors alike.

As Lamphelpat undergoes a remarkable transformation from a neglected relic to a flourishing ecosystem, it stands as a testament to the power of political conviction in conservation efforts and the unwavering dedication to preserving the natural legacy of the state.