- विज्ञापन -
The Manipur government has launched the Lamphelpat Wetland Project, an ambitious initiative that seamlessly blends flood mitigation efforts with ecotourism development. Situated on the western outskirts of Imphal city, Lamphelpat, once a thriving wetland, is now being revived to serve both environmental and economic purposes.
Spearheaded by the Water Resources Department and supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the Climate Adaptation Fund, the project reflects Manipur’s dual objective: protecting the capital city from recurring flash floods and creating a hub for green tourism in the northeastern region.
Historically, Lamphelpat acted as a natural floodplain for excess rainwater, particularly during monsoons when the Imphal Valley faces heightened flood risks. However, years of encroachment, urban pressure, and mismanagement led to the degradation of the wetland. As a result, Imphal became increasingly vulnerable to waterlogging and flash floods.
The new restoration project aims to reclaim over 200 acres of wetland area, removing invasive species, deepening the water-holding capacity, and reintroducing indigenous aquatic plants to stabilize the ecosystem. According to officials, the restored wetland will act as a buffer zone during heavy rainfall, absorbing overflow and regulating water levels across adjacent areas.
“We’re not just reviving a wetland—we’re securing Imphal’s future against floods,” said an official from the Water Resources Department. “At the same time, we’re unlocking its potential as a beautiful, sustainable destination.”
One of the key features of the Lamphelpat Manipur project is its hybrid approach that combines infrastructure upgrades with nature-based solutions. Engineers are building channels and sluice gates for controlled water flow, while also introducing solar-powered lighting, elevated wooden pathways, and eco-watch towers for tourists.
The project envisions a wetland park complete with boating facilities, birdwatching zones, walking trails, and picnic spots, all developed with minimal disruption to the natural habitat. The state government has collaborated with local environmental experts and community leaders to ensure that biodiversity conservation remains at the heart of development.
“We’re taking a low-impact approach—this isn’t about concrete, it’s about coexistence,” said a senior ecologist advising the project. “The design respects the wetland’s natural character.”
Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has repeatedly emphasized the importance of turning Lamphelpat into an economic driver for local communities. By transforming it into a Manipur ecotourism development model, the state aims to create new livelihood opportunities for locals through homestays, eco-guides, handloom outlets, and cultural performances.
The tourism component is also expected to draw visitors from across India and beyond, especially those seeking offbeat, eco-conscious travel destinations in the Northeast. “With its scenic waterbodies and lush biodiversity, Lamphelpat has the potential to become Imphal’s green heart,” said the Chief Minister.
To foster a sense of ownership, local residents and school students are being involved through awareness drives, tree plantation programs, and wetland clean-up campaigns. The state also plans to set up an interpretation center and offer guided educational tours to promote wetland literacy and conservation ethics among the youth.
The initiative has gained praise from conservationists and urban planners alike. Many have highlighted the project as a rare instance where flood control in Imphal is being addressed in harmony with ecological preservation and tourism.
As climate change continues to impact the Northeast with erratic weather patterns, the Lamphelpat project is being seen as a replicable model for other flood-prone cities across India. With real-time water monitoring systems and a maintenance blueprint already in place, officials are confident that the project will have a lasting impact.
“This isn’t a beautification project—it’s a strategic investment in Manipur’s environmental resilience,” said a senior official from the Planning Department.
The Lamphelpat Manipur project stands as a shining example of how integrated planning and community-centric design can create a future where nature, safety, and tourism thrive together.
