A campaign against pollution was launched at Manipur Pollution Control Board (MPCB) premises in Imphal on Sunday.
The theme of the campaign was “save the future, pollution is controllable,”.
The campaign is organized by MPCB in association with the upcoming Tanglei Festival of Oinam Sports Association (OSA) to be held at Tangleibung Ground, Oinam from March 2-5.
Forest and Environment Minister Thounaojam Shyamkumar, Chairman L Radhakishore Singh of MPCB, MLA S Bira Singh(Kumbi), former minister and Speaker Dr Mohammad Maniruddin Shaikh, Member Secretary T Mangi Singh of MPCB attended the launch as Guests of Honour along with MPCB staffs.
Speaking at the launch, 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 organized with an aim to develop all round capabilities for a clean and pollution free environment.
In his speech, Chairman L Radhakishore Singh of 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, main market in Imphal.
Stating that around 2,000 diesel auto rickshaws are entering Imphal city daily, Radhakishore said the State Government has stopped issuing permit till March 31, 2018 to solve the issue apart from consultation with experts.
In the next stage, MPCB will take up necessary steps to monitor the pollution of Nambul River and Loktak Lake, he added.
Minister Shyamkumar also flagged off two rallies from the MPCB office. The rallies – comprising four cyclists will tour Imphal, Jiribam and Hailakandi (Assam) and return back by same route on March 1 next while other rally comprising bikers and cyclists will cover the routes – Lamphelpat, Moirang, Kakching, Thoubal and Oinam, carrying posters with different slogans.
OSA is organising Tanglei Festival (March 2-5) 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, a rock music show by a band from Bangkok, Thailand.
The first ever long boarding (skateboarding) competition in India and Mountain Biking (cycling) will also be held.