Imphal : To protect the biodiversity and natural resources for both wildlife and the general masses, a route march along the foothills of Langol Reserved Forest (RF) in the northwestern part of Imphal West district was organized 

The primary objective of this march organized by the Manipur Forest Department was to assess the human-induced pressures affecting the reserved forest.  The march started from the Tarung general area and proceeded to the Iroishemba Beat Office.

Langol Reserved Forest and Langol Extension RF were established by the Manipur State Darbar Resolution No.4 on November 2, 1938. Langol RF covers an area of 19.22 sq. km, while Langol Extension RF spans 2.05 sq. km.

These forests are under the jurisdiction of Sadar East and Sadar West Range, comprising two blocks: Lamdeng and Khabam. 

During the march, the team addressed critical issues such as trespassing, littering, and small-scale mining, which pose significant threats to the forest ecosystem.

The team also proposed establishing additional checkpoints along the boundaries of the Langol RF to monitor and prevent illegal activities in and around the area. Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) N Ganesh directed the Range Forest Officers to conduct a fresh assessment of encroachers to safeguard the forest.

N Ganesh, Range forest officer (RFO), Kiranjit Yumnam, Sadar West range and other forest staff, conducted a route march along the foothills of Langol Reserved Forest (RF) on Saturday (July 20).

It is important to note that any illegal occupation within the reserved forest contravenes Section 26 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, the Manipur Forest Rules, 2021, and Section 2 of the Forest Conservation Act, 1980.  Such encroachments are punishable under law.

Additionally, many illegal Dags have been issued within the Langol Reserved Forest against the provisions of the aforementioned Acts and Rules. As such, any Dag Chithas/Patta issued inside the Langol Reserved Forest shall be null and void as per the State Government’s order No. 55/12/8-For dated May 31, 1994.

The Forest Department remains dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the forests. Ongoing efforts are being made to protect the biodiversity and natural resources of Langol RF, the DFO said in a statement issued on Saturday.

By implementing stricter monitoring measures and engaging local communities, the department aims to create a sustainable and secure environment for both wildlife and the people of Imphal.

The DFO also appeals to the general public to inform the Forest Department of any new encroachments or illegal activities in the reserved forests to aid in our conservation efforts.