The All Kakching Khunou United Clubs’ Organisation, a union of 13 clubs of Kakching Khunou, has launched a coordinated drive to protect and restore the catchment areas of the Tarang River amid growing concerns over threats to the locality’s primary water source.
In a statement, the organisation said the Tarang River, which flows through Kakching Khunou, has traditionally served as the main source of water for the area. However, irregular rainfall patterns and reduced water flow in recent times have led to several catchment points gradually drying up, triggering serious concerns over future water availability. While water continues to flow at present, the organisation cautioned that the situation has reached a critical stage and could have severe consequences on daily life and livelihoods if corrective measures are not taken urgently.
The statement said that water supply to Kakching Khunou is maintained through pipelines connected to the Tarang River’s catchment areas. It alleged that unregulated human activities around these zones have obstructed the natural flow of water. According to the organisation, certain individuals have encroached upon catchment areas by fencing land, dumping soil and stones, and using machinery to alter the terrain, thereby disrupting the river’s natural course.
The organisation said local residents have recently taken voluntary steps to safeguard the catchment areas by removing fences, metal sheets, and other obstructions erected around the water source zones. It further alleged that the use of heavy machinery for soil extraction from nearby hills has continued in some areas, posing a serious threat to the long-term water security of Kakching Khunou.
In response, the All Kakching Khunou United Clubs’ Organisation, along with Meira Paibis, Arambai Tenggol Unit 59, and the Water Sanitation Committee, has jointly resolved to enforce strict measures to protect the Tarang River. Warnings have been issued against encroachment, fencing, soil extraction, use of machinery, and construction activities within the river’s catchment areas.
The organisation also stated that a poster campaign has been launched across Kakching Khunou to raise public awareness on the importance of conserving the Tarang River. It appealed to residents to cooperate in protecting the shared water resource, warning that violations would invite responsibility, as safeguarding the river is vital for both present and future generations.