Manipur has been grappling with incessant heavy rainfall since Monday night, resulting in widespread flooding, mudslides, and landslides across the state.
The relentless downpour has led to a significant surge in river levels, raising concerns about further damage and disruptions.
Reports from the IFCD control room indicate that the water levels of Imphal and Nambul rivers are nearing the high flood level, surpassing the warning threshold. However, the water level of the Iril river remains below the warning mark.
Several areas in Imphal, including Heingang constituency and Khurai, the constituency of CAFPD Minister L Sushildro @ Yaima, alongside Uripok, Sagolband, Khwairamband Market, and Keishampat, have witnessed overflow from the Imphal River and Nambul River, leading to extensive flooding.
The upward trend in river levels persists, as observed until the time of this report.
Adding to the challenges, breaches in the banks of the Imphal river have been reported in various areas, including Koirengei and Minuthong, resulting in widespread inundation in Imphal West. The historic Kangla has also succumbed to flooding.
In the hilly terrain, NH-37 (Imphal – Jiribam Road) has been severed by landslides triggered by the incessant downpour.
A mudslide on NH 37 tragically swept a truck into a gorge near Sinam village under New Keithelmanbi Police Station in Kangpokpi district. The truck, registered under AS01JC 4697 and driven by Md Islamuddin, 57, son of (L) Md Sirajuddin of Yairipok Singa, was transporting Veneer Sheets from Imphal.
Prompt action by the driver and handyman averted a potential disaster, as they promptly vacated the truck upon noticing the landslide. However, the vehicle was ultimately swept away by the landslide and plunged into the gorge. Several vehicles remain stranded on both sides of the landslide, awaiting the arrival of excavators for debris clearance.
The persistent rainfall, accompanied by gusty winds, has uprooted trees and torn off house roofs in multiple areas, exacerbating the challenges faced by residents.
In certain locations, disruptions in electric lines and broadband connections have compounded the plight of the populace.
The adverse weather conditions have brought normal life to a standstill, with many individuals confined to their homes.
Transportation infrastructure has taken a severe hit, with a bridge connecting Kangpokpi town and Saikul sustaining damage due to the swollen river.
Furthermore, numerous dwellings along the banks of the Sekmai River have been submerged, with some huts being swept away by the strong currents.
The inundation has extended to a ward in the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) hospital, posing additional challenges for healthcare providers.
The heavy rainfall has led to substantial accumulation of mud across the state, further complicating the situation.
Experts caution that if the precipitation persists for another day, the risk of additional landslides will escalate, potentially worsening the already precarious scenario.
Emergency services remain on high alert, poised to respond to any eventualities.
Residents are strongly advised to remain indoors, refrain from non-essential travel, and stay abreast of official announcements. Public advisories outlining dos and don’ts have been issued by the respective district administrations.
The government is closely monitoring the situation and has issued advisories urging people to take necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being.
