Former Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Education Dr. R K Ranjan has strongly criticised the construction of floating huts and similar structures at Loktak Lake for commercial purposes, stating that such activities amount to a blatant violation of the Loktak Lake Protection Act. He maintained that there are no clear regulations or a proper regulatory framework permitting such constructions and questioned how floating houses are being allowed within a lake that is protected under specific legislation.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. R K Ranjan said that Loktak Lake, regarded as the pride of Manipur and the only large natural freshwater lake in the entire North Eastern region, is being subjected to systematic and illegal encroachment. He alleged that portions of the lake area have been unlawfully allotted land pattas and that, under the pretext of promoting tourism, several permanent and semi permanent structures have been erected. According to him, some areas have also been occupied in the name of fish farming.
Dr. R K Ranjan stated that such activities amount to a deliberate and organised destruction of a national asset. He described these actions as crimes against Loktak Lake, which, he said, is deeply linked with the history, culture and livelihood of the people of Manipur. He warned that continued neglect and unregulated construction would cause irreversible damage to the lake’s fragile ecosystem.
The former minister further alleged that the Manipur Government and the Loktak Development Authority have failed to exercise effective oversight. He said that in the absence of clearly defined rules and enforcement mechanisms, illegal settlement, expansion of encroachments and construction activities have been allowed to proliferate in and around the lake. He added that tourism related projects, housing structures and other commercial activities have been taken up without adequate safeguards.
Dr. R K Ranjan also expressed concern that unchecked construction within the lake area is gradually shrinking the water body and destroying its natural character. He noted that Loktak Lake once supported diverse aquatic life and sustained the livelihoods of fishermen and local communities, but warned that continued environmental degradation could severely affect fish populations, water quality and the overall ecological balance.
Calling for urgent corrective measures, the former Union Minister of State urged the authorities to strictly enforce the Loktak Lake Protection Act and to immediately halt all illegal constructions. He stressed the need for accountability and transparency in decisions affecting the lake, and said that protecting Loktak is essential not only for Manipur but also for preserving an important natural heritage of the region.