23.2.09

Flames scorch floating national park in Manipur


The only floating national park in the world was in flames on Sunday, posing a threat to animals, including endangered species. Locals first saw smoke billow out of Keibul Lamjao National Park, in Manipur’s Bishnupur district. The fire soon engulfed dry plants and spread in three directions before fading in the evening . The national park is home to the rare Brow Antlered Deer, locally known as Sangai. Locals said some Sangais were seen running helter skelter to escape the flames. The park is spread over 2,160 hectares. “A team of forest officials, including the district forest officer and some forest rangers, rushed to the spot to assess the situation,” said S Singsit, principal chief conservator of forests. He added that there is no news of any Sangai deaths due to the blaze. “We’ll get a clear picture after the officials submit their report,” he said. Though the cause of fire is yet to be ascertained, there is every possibility of Sangais being injured. R K Ranjan Singh, retired Manipur University registrar and environmentalist, said though no casualties have been reported, it is certain some were injured while dodging the flames. He added that experts, including veterinarians, should conduct a survey in the park to verify if any Sangais were injured and arrange for treatment. “Forest staff should remain vigilant so that no one enters the park and takes advantage of the situation,” Singh said. The park’s eco-system has been greatly endangered since Ithai Barrage was built on Loktak Lake in 1979. Ecologist Parimal Bhattacharjee said the fire could be a direct consequence of the ecological impact on the national park. “When the Loktak water level comes down during winter, the vegetation draws nutrition from the ground and hence the green cover is maintained all year. But after the dam came up, the water level remained constant and prevented the vegetation from coming in contact with the ground. So, the vegetation becomes dry in winter, increasing chances of forest fires,” ecologist Parimal Bhattacharjee said. Bhattacharjee added that even the population of eastern saras cranes, greater adjutant storks and pelican have come down significantly after the construction of the dam. Located in the south-western part of the picturesque Loktak Lake, the park had also been used as hideouts by various militant organizations. There had been many instances of encounters between rebels and security forces inside the park. The government, in association with locals, is making every effort to protect the Sangais.

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