Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, May 23:
The iconic and rare Shirui Lily, endemic to the hills of Shirui village in Ukhrul district, is once again under threat—not from nature, but from careless tourists. Over the past two days, scores of visitors were witnessed plucking, trampling, and even uprooting the delicate blossoms, drawing serious concern from local custodians of the environment.
The Shirui Youth Club (SYC), guardians of the Shirui hills and its natural heritage, have expressed deep disappointment over the destructive behavior exhibited by some tourists attending the ongoing Shirui Lily Festival. The festival, celebrated to honour the state’s state flower, aims to promote eco-tourism, cultural exchange, and respect for nature. Unfortunately, some visitors have turned this celebration into an act of disrespect.
“It is disheartening to see such disregard for the Shirui Lily, which is not only a symbol of our identity but also a fragile gift of nature,” said Ningkhanrin Shangh, President of the Shirui Youth Club. He emphasized the need for responsible tourism and issued a stern warning: “The SYC will take firm action against anyone found damaging or removing flowers or plants from the hills.”
The Club urges all visitors to admire the lilies without disturbing them and to avoid any activity that could harm the delicate ecosystem of Shirui Peak. “Let us be responsible tourists,” Ningkhanrin added, “so that this breathtaking place remains pristine for generations to come.”
With the festival in full swing, the SYC calls for cooperation from tourists, urging them to embrace a “less greedy approach” that enhances not just individual experience but collective harmony with nature.