In a sad development for the state of Manipur, the majestic but endangered state flower Shirui Lily (Kashong Timrawon) is facing serious threat following mushrooming of Ma-rām (local name) which is a small bamboo-like type of plant that is fast enveloping the Shirui Peak.
As universally known, Shirui Lily is a unique flower of the state that grows only on Shirui peak and nowhere else. And given its significance, the state government has made Shirui festival a state festival in its bid to preserve the state-treasured trove.
Meanwhile, a joint team of Ukhrul-based journalists and concerned departmental officials on Saturday, in its effort to recognize the highly alarming and increasing threats posed by climate change and other factors, conducted a one-day spot survey of Shirui Kashong, the Shirui Lily’s only habitat.
Ma-rām (which is a local name), a small bamboo-like type of plant, was found fast enveloping the Shirui Peak.
According to the locals, the roots of Ma-rām are so strong that it can prevent the Shirui Lily from sprouting. The rapid growth of Ma-rām at Shirui Peak is fast diminishing the area and its habitat.
The initiative, a collaborative effort between Ukhrul District Information Office (DIO) and Ukhrul District Working Journalists Association (UDWJA), aimed to document the current state of the endangered Shirui Lily and raise awareness about its plight. By witnessing Lily’s growth conditions firsthand, the team aimed to understand the impact of environmental changes on its survival.
DIO Wungkhan Shimray lauded the local journalists for their proactive role in spearheading this crucial initiative. He acknowledged the growing concern surrounding Lily’s vulnerability due to the impact of climate change and other factors.
Addie Chiphang, president of UDWJA, expressed their gratitude to DIO Wungkhan Shimray for supporting the trip, and for ensuring the necessary resources made available for the visiting team to conduct the survey successfully.
Upon reaching the corridor of the peak, the team were greeted with sweet scented wild orchids and beautiful yet a scattered array of blooming Shirui Lilies, in addition to scores of plants with their petals at different stages of wilting.
Speaking to the team, a local villager revealed that the bloom season was nearing its end, and some plants have started shedding their petals for the current season. The team also observed the arduous conditions under which the Lilies thrived amidst the dense undergrowth of Ma-rām, which is also native to Kashong.
The villagers shared their concerns about Ma-rām posing a significant threat to the survival of the rare Lilies. They explained that the bamboo’s extensive root system inhibited the sprouting of lily bulbs, hindering their propagation.
“The uncontrolled spread of Ma-rām has drastically diminished the available habitat for lily growth,” lamented a villager.
“This problem arose after the suspension of annual controlled burning on the peak, imposed by forest regulations.”
Meanwhile, sweltering conditions prevailed on most of the hilltops, except the highest peak, Shongshang, which remained mostly enveloped by chilly winds and clouds.
The abode of Shirui Lily has rich tourism potential and if tapped well, it will generate income and even provide employment for the youths.
