IMPHAL, June 13: Mahabali Umang (forest) Kanba Committee strongly opposed the construction of new diversion bridge on the Mahabali Forest.
During a press conference held today at the Mahabali Temple Hall spokesperson of the committee G.A. Ravichandra who is also a former councillor of IMC said the people will not allow construction of the diversion bridge after destroying the forest area.
However the people welcome construction of the diversion bridge at another location no disturbing the forest he said before adding under the government rule of 1980, this forest should be protected.
He further warn to cease all works immediately.
Speaking to the media councillor of the Ward No 19 Y Ratikanta said the department is taking up the work without consulting the local MLA and councillor.
He appealed to the Chief Minister to look into the matter. Mahabali Forest is the only forest that exist inside the town, he observed.
He said without consulting the Mahabali Seva Samiti, the contractors destroyed the wall of the forest area. The committee is ready to file a case against the people involved.
The large people of the Mahabali area and palace compound were gathered there and asked to stop the construction work.
Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/06/diversion-bridge-at-mahabali-forest-challenged/