Chief Minister N Biren Singh has called for a joint meeting of all the stakeholders to delve into the modernization plan proposed by the National Hydro Electric Power Corporation (NHPC) for the Loktak Hydro Electric Project on December 15, 2023. The chief minister has called the meeting in collaboration with Loktak Development Authority and the state government considering the sentiments of populations in the state regarding the impact of the project and its far-reaching consequences on communities, submergence of agricultural land, socio-economic impact and alterations to the ecosystem, said an official source.
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“Key issues such as environmental degradation, community displacement, socio-economic changes (especially sustaining livelihoods) and alterations to the local ecosystem will be central topics of discussion. The meeting is poised to provide a platform for stakeholders to express their concerns and explore sustainable alternatives. The state government is wholeheartedly committed to the comprehensive rejuvenation of our esteemed Loktak Lake and its associated wetlands, implementing all conceivable measures for the well-being of both present and future generations. We earnestly seek public cooperation in this collective endeavour”, it said.
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The Chief Minister’s proactive approach, in tandem with Loktak Development Authority and the state government, underscores a commitment to evaluating and mitigating the negative impacts associated with the project, aligning with LDA’s conservation mission, it added.
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It is learnt that the crucial meeting is likely to be attended by Minister (Forest & Environment, Power & Agriculture), Minister (Water Resources), Minister (Public Works & YAS), Minister (Fishery ), Minister (PHED and CAF&PD), Minister (Education & Law), MLAs of Thanga, Moirang, Kumbi, Wangoi, Mayang Imphal, Chairman LDA , Chief Secretary & administrative secretaries and head of deptt concerned etc.
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The Loktak Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in North East India and a Ramsar Protected Site since 1990 faces pressing ecological challenges, necessitating a thoughtful and strategic approach. Since its commission in 1983, the LHEP has adversely affected Loktak Lake’s ecosystem and led to the flooding of approximately 80,000 acres of land in the valley.
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Notably, M. Asnikumar, LDA Chairman has directed attention to the significant environmental concerns associated with the Loktak Hydro Electric Project. Following a series of letters addressed to the NHPC, Ministry of Power, and Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC), M Asnikumar highlighted serious breaches in administrative procedures related to the submission of the revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the modernization of the Loktak Project, leading to a high-level meeting held in New Delhi in November last week. The LDA team led by the Chairman and state government officials, emphasized the critical issues associated with the modernization plan of Loktak Hydro Electric Project during the meeting.
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