Dimapur, November 16 (MExN): Reviving its demand for stopping the construction of the Thoubal Multipurpose Project, the Citizens’ Concern for Dams and Development (CCDD) demanded that unless there is a comprehensive review all construction activities of the dam must be stopped.
The CCDD in a press statement issued through its Co-Chairperson Aram Pamei endorsed the long term demands of the Mapithel Dam Affected Villages Organization (MDAVO) for a comprehensive review of the Thoubal Multipurpose Project to ensure its compliance with environmental and social norms that emerged after the project was cleared for construction in 1980.
After more than 20 years of construction, the dam is still incomplete, and has found to lack sound environmental, social, economic, safety, quality studies and implementation, the release stated and added that that the rehabilitation and resettlement component, are found to have been completely neglected by dam authorities.
The release also said that CAG reports also clearly found that there has been corruption and misappropriation of funds. The same CAG report also have found that there was no rigid quality control of the dam, the release added.
Furthermore, the CCDD said that it has been revealed that the dam authorities have not obtained the mandatory environmental and forest clearance.
In this regard, the release said that the Chief Conservator of Forest of the Manipur Government have written to the Chief Engineer (IFCD) saying, “I’m to inform you to stop any further construction of Thoubal Multipurpose Project and also to submit detailed report/explanation as required ……..
“In other words the dam authorities have failed in all aspects of dam building that necessitates this call for a comprehensive review,” the release asserted.
In this connection, the CCDD expressed deep concern that the government of Manipur is trying to complete the construction without taking this dangerous negligence into consideration.
“CCDD joins the affected people in demanding that unless there is a comprehensive review all construction activities must be stopped henceforth.
