By Reena Nongmaithem
Imphal, Nov. 15: The Historic Langthabal Palace which was listed under Manipur Ancient & Historical Monument And Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1976 and Rules 1979 by the Government of Manipur on 9 September 1981 does not seem like a protected area, instead it has become a vast dumping ground.
The whole Imphal city is on full swing in preparation for Sangai Festival which is scheduled to begin from Nov. 21, with the luxurious decorations, rejuvenating of Kangla Pat (Lake), constructing Sanjen Thong (Bridge), and arranging whatever the State can do to attract as much foreign and domestic tourist as they can. Very unluckily this reporter today witnessed the Memorial site of Maharaj Ghambhir Singh at Langthabal situated at Manipur University campus seems to be completely neglected by concern department and authorities.
The site which was once to be the Royal Palace during the reign of Maharaj Gambhir Singh, the then Maharaja (King) of Manipur and which was announced as Maharaj Gambhir Singh Complex some years back by the Government of Manipur is now covered with full of disposed garbage which was left over by some uncivilized picnickers inside the complex.
The Memorial House (Meetei Yumjao) symbolising shrine of the king has not been well maintained as no repairing has taken place. The condition of the wooden made sustainable bridge built over the Chandranadi River, the only entrance to the site is in danger to cross as the wooden bridge may break anytime.
The complex which supposed to be well maintained having high potential to draw tourists has now filled with bushes.
It may be mentioned that many a times the issue of continuous negligence of the historic Langthabal Palace by State Government and concern Department had been raised by certain organizations. But still no sign of effective protection of the site remains as mere a dream.