Donald Takhell

3 weeks ago | downtoearth.org.in | Donald Takhell

Continuous rainfall over the past five days, triggered by a depression over northern Bangladesh and adjoining Meghalaya, has wreaked havoc across both the hills and the valley regions of Manipur. Widespread flooding and landslides have disrupted lives and infrastructure, with major portions of Imphal West submerged following river overflows and multiple breaches along embankments.

1 month ago | downtoearth.org.in | Donald Takhell

Every morning before dawn, 54-year-old Laitonjam Sanamanbi set off from her village in the Ngariyan Hills with baskets of fresh vegetables and a rising sense of dread — for the journey to Imphal, once shared and affordable, has become costlier, lonelier and more suffocating. Like thousands in Manipur, she relies on privately hired vehicles in the absence of a functioning public transport system, one of the many factors choking the state’s roads and lungs.

Mar 16, 2025 | link.springer.com | Donald Takhell |Rafael V. Dimalanta

AbstractThis chapter explores Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, focusing on its ecological, socio-cultural, and political significance. Loktak is a biodiversity hotspot, home to numerous species of fish, birds, and the endangered Sangai deer. The indigenous Meitei community relies on the lake for food and livelihood. It is also the material basis for their cultural practices.

Aug 27, 2024 | downtoearth.org.in | Donald Takhell

The northeastern states of India has been under severe strain due to floods. This year, unprecedented large-scale floods have occurred in Manipur and Tripura, in addition to Assam, where floods occur annually. With changing rainfall patterns, rapid urbanisation, deforestation, and climate change in the region, the susceptibility to disasters such as floods is likely to increase in the coming years.

Jul 12, 2024 | eco-business.com | Donald Takhell |Ningthoujam Victor

Loktak Lake, in the northeastern state of Manipur, spanning 287 sq km, is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. Over 100,000 people live in villages along its shores, relying on its fish for their livelihoods. Embedded deeply in Manipuri culture and folklore, the lake has served as a vital lifeline to many as conflict between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo ethnic groups has consumed the state since May 2023.