IMPHAL, March 3: India had ascended to the phasing out of an insecticide Endosulfan in April 2011 international convention in Stockholm. However, its use by the fishing communities around Loktak had alarmed many on its potential effects.
A series of awareness campaigns on the ill effects of Endosulfan was launched by the Loktak Development Authority which culminated today in a public meeting at Phoubakchao, Imphal west.
The meeting was organized by LDA and Loktak Project Affected Area Farmers & Land Owners Association and attended by Th Ibobi Singh, LDA Project Director as president and A Bira Singh as chief guest.
The scientific officer of LDA and few others spoke as resource persons on the occasion.
It was highlighted that similar instances of use of pesticides and insecticides for fishing had occurred in 1993 resulting in the death of infants and children. The toxic effects of Endosulfan can persists for several years from the time a person, living organisms or vegetation comes in contact with it.
Symptoms of acute poisoning from the substance may include convulsions, lack of coordination, staggering, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, unconsciousness.
The speakers also fear of fishes disappearing from the Loktak Lake if the use such toxic substances continue. It may also be mentioned that the effects of Endosulfan use in Kerala had persisted even after 30 years resulting in alarming rise in cases of birth defects and cancer, etc.
LDA had made several efforts in reaching out to local communities around Mayang Imphal, Sekjamaijin and Phoubakchao. They conducted focus group discussions, poster and leaflet campaigns which attracted around 40 fishermen in each location.