The Eco-Clean Mebo Mission (ECMM) has officially launched the “Tango E:pong Mission” in Motum village, focusing on the conservation of the endangered catfish species Amblyceps motumensis and Chaca chaca, locally known as ‘Beyek’ and ‘Sita Dukhe’. The mission also includes eco-cleanliness efforts to preserve the village’s environment.

The launch event was attended by Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng, Mebo ADC Sibo Passing, ECMM Chairman P. Lamba, Superintendent of Police (East Siang), Dr. Kento Kadu, Ichthyologist and Head of Zoology at JNC Pasighat, and Smt. Olen Megu Damin, SNA Awardee and Mission Manager of ECMM. The initiative received strong support from the Ato Pasing Erang (APE) mission committee.

Motum village is recognized as the home of Amblyceps motumensis, a species of catfish endemic to the Brahmaputra River basin. This species is vulnerable, inhabiting freshwater environments like rivers and streams. Known for its elongated body and small size (6-7 cm), it is crucial to the local aquatic ecosystem but faces threats from habitat loss.

Sibo Passing, ADC of Mebo and ECMM Chairman, stressed the importance of protecting Motum’s unique aquatic life and the potential for eco-tourism and research in the region. He urged the village community to safeguard local water bodies, which are vital to the survival of these species.

Mebo MLA Oken Tayeng praised the collective efforts of the Motum villagers, APE mission committee, and stakeholders, encouraging continued conservation efforts to boost tourism and the local economy. Dr. Kento Kadu presented key insights on catfish conservation and the importance of protecting the species.

In support of the mission, APE President Jobang Passing donated Rs. 1 lakh to aid the conservation efforts. The launch of Tango E:pong is part of ECMM’s broader initiative to enhance environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation in Mebo Sub-Division. The mission follows other successful eco-clean initiatives, including the Gangge Mission in Sigar village and the establishment of a tourist rest camp in Darne village.