Imphal, Jan 16: Manipur consumer Affairs, Food and public distribution Minister, L Susindro, has claimed that due to rampant deforestation and clearing of hills to make space for poppy cultivation is resulting in acute water scarcity.

He conducted an aerial survey of poppy plantations and deforestation in the interior jungles of the state.

Speaking to media persons, Susindro expressed his dissatisfaction over the vast poppy plantation in border areas of Thangjing Range in Churachandpur district, Chakpikarong in Chandel district and in many hills of Saikul in Kangpokpi districts of Manipur.

“Most of the rivers which run in Imphal valley originating from Kangpokpi district have dried up due to rampant deforestation. The present stock of water in Imphal West would last for not more than 20 days,” he said.

The minister further informed that the government will be setting up pumping stations in different locations of Imphal West within 2-3 days. “The water level of Loktak Lake and Kangchup has also receded considerably. The only hope left is the Chingkhei Ching Water Supply whose pipe-laying is one the pipeline. It will be able to supply sufficient water at least to pumping stations,” the minister said.

“The state government will write to the ministry of Food and Civil supply to invalidate ration cards of all villages that support and permit poppy cultivation,” he added.

The Manipur government has started massive crackdown against poppy cultivation in the state and, so far, huge hectares of poppy plants have been destroyed in the state.