Today, April 13, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Head of Forest Force (HoFF) Anurag Bajpai, IFS, conducted an inspection of the State Orchidarium at Khonghampat, Imphal West, to assess the conservation efforts and infrastructure ahead of the peak tourist season in May. Accompanied by Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial-I & Wildlife) L. Joykumar and DFO (Central Forest Division) Vikram Nadhe, Bajpai evaluated the current management practices and facilities to identify areas for improvement.
During the visit, Bajpai expressed concerns over the poor maintenance and upkeep of the orchid collections, particularly those planted in earthen pots and ground plots. He noted the lack of proper labeling of species, inadequate moisture levels, and uncleanliness across tourist-facing areas, including the interpretation center, orchid display house, cloakroom, public facilities, trek route, and entry points. The PCCF & HoFF also highlighted the negative impact of dust pollution from nearby National Highway construction and hill cutting on the sensitive orchid species.
In response to the visit, Bajpai issued strict directives to DFO (Wildlife) to ensure regular watering and maintenance, install proper signage for all orchid species, and begin urgent improvements to tourist amenities and horticultural infrastructure. Additionally, the PCCF & HoFF instructed the development of a sprinkler-based moisture regulation system across the Orchidarium and tasked Chief Conservator of Forests (Territorial-I & Wildlife) L. Joykumar with regular monitoring of ongoing and future activities to ensure compliance and long-term sustainability.
Bajpai also directed DFO (Central Forest Division) to develop an integrated trekking circuit connecting the State Orchidarium, Bambusetum, Arboretum, Biodiversity Park at Khonghampat, and Heingang Nagar Van, including Polo Marjing, to create a comprehensive eco-tourism network within Imphal West. This initiative aims to promote sustainable tourism and conserve the state’s rich biodiversity.
The visit highlights the PCCF & HoFF’s commitment to protecting and conserving the state’s unique orchid species and promoting eco-tourism in the region. By addressing the identified issues, the department aims to enhance the visitor experience and ensure the long-term sustainability of the Orchidarium. With its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, the Manipur State Orchidarium is an important tourist destination, and these efforts will contribute to the state’s reputation as a hub for eco-tourism in the region.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-state-orchidarium-under-scrutiny-forest-official-demands-urgent-overhaul-1198451-2025-04-13?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-04-13 18:22:00
