Environment Minister Shyamkumar launches campaign against pollution

Imphal, Feb. 25: Forest and Environment Minister Shri Thounaojam Shyamkumar today launched a campaign against pollution under the theme “save the future, pollution is controllable” at Manipur Pollution Control Board (MPCB) office, Imphal West DC Office Complex, Lamphelpat. MPCB is organising the campaign in association with the upcoming Tanglei Festival to be held from 2nd-5th March, 2018 at Tangleibung Ground, Oinam.
Speaking as the chief guest of the inaugural function, Minister Th. Shyamkumar hoped that the campaign will be able to create mass awareness regarding ways and means to control the deteriorating natural environment of the State. He said the campaign is organised with an aim for developing all round capabilities for a clean pollution free environment.
He said MPCB is working with an objective to control pollution and the protection of the environmental quality with sustainable development. He wished the MPCB success in its endeavour and sought public support.
Shri L. Radhakishore Singh, Chairman, MPCB said the board in an inquiry report found that pollution is caused mainly by the solid waste along with the smoke and noise from the over polluted vehicles plying in Imphal areas, mainly diesel autos in Khwairamband Keithel.
Stating that around 2,000 autos are plying everyday in Imphal city, he said the State Government has stopped issuing permit till 31st March, 2018 as a part to solve the issue apart from continuous consultation with the experts. In the next stage, MPCB will take up necessary steps to solve the pollution of Nambul River and Loktak Lake, he added.
As part of the function, Minister Th. Shyamkumar flagged off two rallies from the MPCB office today. A campaign rally comprising four cyclists will tour Imphal, Jiribam and Hailakandi (Assam) and return back on same route on 1st March. The second rally comprising bikers and cyclists will cover the routes – Lamphelpat, Moirang, Kakching, Thoubal and Oinam, carrying posters with different slogans.
Oinam Sports Association is organising Tanglei Festival (2nd-5th March) in collaboration with MPCB at Tangleibung Ground, Oinam. National and international experts will attend various programmes focusing on Education, Sports, Culture and Entrepreneurship. Some of the highlights of the events include quiz competition, debate, painting, open debate, rock concert – a band from Bangkok, Thailand will give performance, overboard competition (skateboarding) – which will be the first ever longboarding competition in India and Mountain Biking (cycling) among others.
Shri S. Bira Singh, MLA Kumbi A/C, Dr. Mohammad Maniruddin Shaikh, former minister and Speaker, Shri T. Mangi Singh and Member Secretary, MPCB attended the function as guests of honour along with staffs of MPCB.