Imphal: The Water Resources Department (WRD) of Manipur has called for the urgent removal of illegal and unauthorized constructions by certain individuals on land adjacent to the Khuga Dam in Churachandpur.
In a formal complaint lodged with the Churachandpur police, Chitam Chongtham, Superintending Engineer of the Khuga Project Circle, WRD, expressed concern over the illegal encroachment of land near the Khuga Dam. He emphasized that this encroachment is a violation of property laws and poses a significant threat to the environment and public resources.
“The encroachment has not only disrupted the natural landscape but also jeopardizes the dam’s integrity, which is vital for the community’s water supply and ecological balance. The encroachers have started unauthorized tree clearing and road construction,” Chongtham stated in his complaint.
He urged the police to take swift legal action to address the issue, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation to identify the extent of the encroachment. Chongtham also called for the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against those involved in the unlawful activity and the immediate cessation of any further development or unauthorized use of the land.
According to Chongtham, the encroachment is not only a violation of legal norms but is also detrimental to the local community and environment. He added that prompt action by the authorities is essential to restore order and prevent further damage.
In a related incident, Phairembam Suresh, 25, son of Ph Gopen of Khuga Tampak, filed an FIR with Irilbung police on July 6 last year, reporting that his house was destroyed and burned down by a mob, allegedly belonging to Kuki communities. Suresh estimated the damage to his property at approximately Rs 44 lakh. The current status of his complaint remains unknown.
