Manipur, Sept. 26 -- The dams which were constructed in rivers of Manipur have severely affected the livelihood and availability and accessibility of water in Manipur. In the river where the dam is constructed, it affects both upstream and downstream villagers.

"Do not ask for the benefits of Mapithel dam. The years taken to complete construction showed the little benefits. I do not expect any benefits from the Mapithel dam now," said Meitei Nongdamba, one of the hundreds of affected persons in the downstream of the dam.

Construction of the dam was started in 1970 while it was completed in 1990 only.

In an interaction with the Imphal Free Press, Nongdamba said that varieties of local fishes which were caught before the setting up of th...