Loktak Lake

Location : Bishnupur, Manipur
Area : 4455 ha
Ecosystem Type : Wetland
Legal Status : National Park
Brief Description : The problems started in this area when a barrage was constructed for an artificial reservoir for the Loktak Hydroelectric Project. This caused many problems like flash floods, backflow effect of a nearby river, increase in floating vegetation mass in the lake and pressure on the surrounding water bodies for the needs of the villagers. This led to the formation of the Environmental Social Reformation and Sangai Protection Forum (ESRSPF) by concerned individuals and NGOs. This organisation has helped to raise awareness about this area by using various mediums and demonstrations. However, no formal rules (except for not killing sangai) have been set by this committee. The main people effected are the local women and fishermen. Poachers remain a big threat in this area despite apprehending several poachers over the years. As this system is very informal, there have been no direct benefits for those who have been conserving this area. If government agencies worked together, proper studies of the biodiversity of this area and a proper policy and strategy of conservation was implemented, this area could benefit greatly.
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