Imphal, May 16: Residents and women’s organisations in Manipur’s Imphal East district staged a protest at the foothills of Leimaching on May 15, raising concerns over alleged large-scale earth cutting at the hill and calling for immediate intervention to safeguard the environment.
The demonstration was organised by Kshetrigao Nupi Lamjing Lup along with local Meira Paibis, drawing participation from residents of villages located near the Nongmaiching forest range. Protesters gathered at the Leimaching foothills carrying placards with messages demanding the protection of the hill and preservation of the ecosystem.
Participants alleged that continuous and unchecked excavation activities at Leimaching have caused environmental damage and could pose serious risks to the surrounding ecosystem. They urged authorities to halt all earth-cutting activities immediately.
Addressing the gathering, Kshetrigao Nupi Lamjing Lup secretary Pangambam Anita said various awareness programmes on environmental conservation and climate change have been conducted over time, but despite public concern, earth excavation at Leimaching has continued.
Questioning the legality of the ongoing activities, Anita sought clarity on the norms under which the excavation was being carried out. She stated that local communities had protected the hill for years and would not allow it to be damaged.
She also argued that if soil was needed for developmental activities, it should be obtained from authorised sites rather than from hills that local communities have long conserved.
Anita informed that memorandums had already been submitted to the Chief Minister and the Imphal East Deputy Commissioner, seeking immediate government action on the issue.
Expressing concern over the long-term impact of the excavation, she warned that continued earth cutting could alter the natural structure of Leimaching. Stressing the environmental importance of hills, she said such areas play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and supporting clean air.
The protesters also demanded that authorities disclose who authorised the excavation and revoke any permissions granted for earth-cutting activities at the site.
