IMPHAL, Feb 3: Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Sunday expressed deep concern over the environmental degradation in the state, particularly the extinction of water sources due to widespread deforestation. Speaking at an event marking World Wetlands Day 2025 at Leishang Hiden, Canchipur, he called for increased efforts to protect water bodies and the environment, stressing the importance of sustainable water usage.
Highlighting the state’s ongoing initiatives, the Chief Minister pointed out that more than 500 ground drilling pumps had been installed under the Minor Irrigation Department to tap into groundwater as a reliable source of water. He also shared details of several key government projects aimed at restoring and conserving water bodies across the state.
One of the major projects discussed was the restoration of Yaral-pat, which had already been completed. Additionally, the government has taken up the rejuvenation of the Lamphelpat Waterbody, with a project cost estimated at around Rs 650 crore. Singh also mentioned plans to beautify rivers in the state, including the Imphal River and Kongba River, with a budget of Rs 86 crore allocated for this purpose.
The Chief Minister called for the support of the people in these efforts, urging them to collaborate with the state government in safeguarding indigenous people and supporting other developmental initiatives. He also recalled his personal commitment to environmental conservation, noting his active involvement in the restoration of the Nambul River.
Singh reminisced about the river’s poor condition in the past, particularly when he was the Forest and Environment Minister in the Congress-led government in 2004. At that time, he initiated the cleaning process for the Nambul River. Since assuming office as Chief Minister in 2017, Singh continued to prioritize the rejuvenation and conservation of the river. He mentioned that household waste from areas along the river is now collected via pipelines and treated at the water treatment plant in Mongsangei.
