Manipur Devastated as Rivers Flood Farmlands, Homes

Manipur’s Imphal valley is grappling with a severe flooding crisis as two major rivers, the Iril and Wangjing, breached their embankments on Sunday night, submerging vast swathes of agricultural land, residential areas, and critical infrastructure. The disaster has disrupted lives across Imphal East and Thoubal districts, with officials scrambling to manage the fallout and provide relief to affected communities.

In Imphal East, the Iril river overflowed at Kshetrigao, inundating farmlands, homes, and roads, leaving residents stranded and farmers facing significant losses. Similarly, in Thoubal district, the Wangjing river surged past danger levels, flooding the Sangaiyumpham and Wangjing areas. The deluge also swamped a relief camp at Wangjing Kodompokpi Sports Complex, complicating efforts to assist displaced residents.

The flooding’s destructive force was starkly evident in Yairipok, where an iron bridge spanning the Thoubal river was swept away by powerful currents, severing connectivity between several villages in Imphal East and Thoubal districts. This loss has isolated communities, hindering access to essential supplies and emergency services.

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In response, the Manipur Fire Services rescue team worked tirelessly, evacuating over 100 stranded residents from Yairipok Khoirom Mayai Leikai in Imphal East to temporary relief centers. The flooding also hit prominent figures, with the residential compound of Congress state president Keisham Meghachandra in Wangkhem, Thoubal district, reported to be underwater.

Local authorities are now racing against time to assess the damage and provide aid. The submersion of agricultural land threatens the livelihoods of countless farmers, who face the prospect of ruined crops just before harvest season. “The situation is dire, and we’re mobilizing all available resources to support the affected areas,” an official from the Imphal East district administration said.

Residents have expressed frustration over the recurring flooding issues, pointing to inadequate embankment maintenance and poor drainage systems as contributing factors. The state government has promised swift action, with plans to reinforce breached embankments and improve flood defenses. However, with the rivers still posing a threat, relief efforts remain a priority.

The floods have added to Manipur’s challenges, already strained by ethnic tensions and economic difficulties. Community leaders are calling for immediate assistance, including food, clean water, and shelter for those displaced. As the region braces for potential further rainfall, the focus remains on rescuing stranded individuals and mitigating further damage to infrastructure and agriculture.

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