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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
Residents of Imphal East district are facing concern and alarm as the Iril River, a vital waterway in the region, recently revealed the presence of a mysterious black substance near the upstream of the Dolaithabi dam.
NEW DELHI: Residents of Imphal East district are facing concern and alarm as the Iril River, a vital waterway in the region, recently revealed the presence of a mysterious black substance near the upstream of the Dolaithabi dam. To prevent further contamination downstream, particularly in Imphal East, authorities have taken the precautionary step of closing the dam responsible for regulating water flow.
In response to the alarming discovery, a team led by Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) Minister Susindro Meitei, alongside state officials including Imphal East District’s Deputy Commissioner Kh Diana and Superintendent of Police S Ibomcha Singh, along with PHED engineers and environmental experts from the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, conducted an on-site evaluation.
Multiple water samples were meticulously collected from various locations along the river and sent for initial testing in respective laboratories. Preliminary findings suggest that while all parameters remain within acceptable limits for untreated water, further analysis in advanced laboratories is deemed necessary.
Officials noted that the blackish substance appeared to be concentrated along specific banks, possibly influenced by wave and wind currents. Meanwhile, villagers residing near the dam and affected river sites have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
In Leitanpokpi Awang Leikai, residents have stopped using water from the river after noticing the significant presence of pollutants resembling charcoal. There are suspicions among locals that the pollution may be intentional, originating from neighbouring Saikul in Kangpokpi district, where the Iril River’s catchment area lies in the hill ranges.
This incident follows a recent oil spill on January 10, stemming from a decommissioned power station, which affected streams in Kanto Sabal and Sekmai villages in Imphal West district. The spill, believed to have originated from the Leimakhong heavy fuel power station in Kangpokpi district, has severely contaminated water used for both domestic and agricultural purposes.
