Studies on Recommendation of The Ithai Barrag...

Studies on Recommendation of The Ithai Barrage: Problems And Socio-Economic Sustainable Development In Manipur

Author Name : Dr. Kh. Jugindro Singh

ABSTRACT

The Ithai Dam (35ft high) was constructed in 1983 at a height of 768 metres contour line above MSL across the Manipur River, at the confluence of the Khuga River (Tuitha), has becoming reverse expectations what the people thought earlier, particularly who settled in the lake catchment areas. Aim of the present paper is to discuss the problems of the Ithai dam and suggesting sustainable development both in anthropogenic and socio-economic degradations.  The Ithai Barrage was constructed to impound water in the Loktak Lake and harness its potential for hydropower generation (to generate 105 MW of power by three units; each producing 35 MW) and agricultural purposes, including providing irrigation for 24,000 hectares of land in the Loktak surrounding areas. Over time, the Barrage has affected the hydrology of the lake and severely affected the ecology and economy of the state. The present paper based on primary and secondary data available from field survey, Government publications, journals and e-sources. Manipur River is the most important as it passes through thickly populated areas and covers the whole of Manipur valley consisting of the five valley districts; Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal, Kakching and Bishnupur. Since the construction and commissioning of this dam, there have been drastic overnight changes in the Loktak catchment areas that have in turn adversely affected the environment and socio-economic condition of the people of Manipur.  

Keyword: Catchment Area, degradation, deforestation, inundation, run-off