Rejuvenating lamphelpat waterbody: a sustainable solution for imphal city
Urbanization has brought prosperity and development to cities across the globe, but it has also given rise to numerous challenges, one of which is flooding. Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, faces recurrent issues of urban flooding. The Lamphelpat Waterbody Project, initiated by the Water Resources Department, aims to address this issue comprehensively while also providing sustainable water sources and promoting eco-tourism.
Falling under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Jal Shakti at the central level and the Water Resources Department at the state level, this project envisions the transformation of the Lamphelpat Waterbody into a multifaceted solution to the pressing challenges faced by Imphal City. With the Water Resources Department as the proposed project implementation agency and a dedicated Project Management Unit (PMU) overseeing its execution, this initiative is poised to address critical issues such as urban flooding, water security, and ecological preservation while also embracing eco-tourism as a means of sustainable development.
The Lamphelpat Waterbody Project has several key objectives. The primary goal is to develop Lamphelpat Waterbody into an integrated flood risk management system, effectively reducing the impact of floods in Imphal. With climate change becoming increasingly evident, the project will incorporate climate change adaptation and flood risk management strategies to ensure the city’s resilience in the face of changing weather patterns.
By creating a reservoir, the project aims to provide an additional source of water for drinking purposes, ensuring water security for Imphal’s growing population. The project will also enhance the area’s aesthetic value and promote eco-tourism. The project plans to adopt international best practices in flood risk management, such as implementing a real-time SMART flood risk management system, IoT-based water quality monitoring, and command and control systems for rainfall monitoring.
The project will be funded through external assistance, with an estimated total cost of INR 650 crores (approximately USD 87.83 million). The state government will contribute 20% of the funding, with the remainder coming from external sources such as Asian Development Bank (ADB) /Jan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)/World Bank – IBRD.
Several clearances have been obtained, including consent certificates from the Departments of Relief & Disaster Management, MAHUD, PHED, and Tourism. Importantly, the project does not involve land pooling, land acquisition, or resettlement and rehabilitation, as it utilizes existing land holdings.
The Lamphelpat Waterbody Project represents a comprehensive and innovative approach to address the urban flooding challenges faced by Imphal while ensuring water security and promoting eco-tourism. With careful planning, sustainable practices, and community involvement, this project by the Government of Manipur has the potential to transform the city and serve as a model for flood management in similar urban areas. By leveraging external assistance and innovative technologies, Imphal is taking a significant step towards a more resilient and sustainable future.
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