Massive Floods and Landslides Hit Manipur; Relief Operations Underway
Incessant rainfall caused by a depression over Northern Bangladesh and adjoining Meghalaya has triggered widespread flooding and landslides across several districts in Manipur, resulting in significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and agriculture. The rains, which began on May 28, have overwhelmed riverbanks and caused severe water inundation, flash floods, and landslides across the state.
According to the Directorate of Relief & Disaster Management, several valley areas such as Maiba Khul, Sanjenthong, New Checkon, Koirengei, Khurai Heikrumakhong, Kontha Ahallup, and Mahaballi near Old Thumbu Thong have been inundated due to breached or overflowing drains and rivers.
Hilly districts including Senapati, Tamenglong, Ukhrul, Noney, and Pherzawl have reported floods and landslides, with specific location data awaited.
The calamity has caused significant damage to agricultural and horticultural crops and vital infrastructure such as housing, bridges, schools, electric poles, IVR roads, and community halls.
Emergency Response in Full Swing
The state government issued public advisory notices on May 30 urging residents to stay alert and follow official instructions. Emergency response teams have been activated across all districts:
✓ A total of 29 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) personnel with 4 boats have been deployed for search and rescue (SAR) operations.
✓ Two State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams comprising 20 personnel with 2 boats are conducting rescue missions.
✓ Three teams from the Fire Services Department, comprising 47 personnel and 3 boats, are also active in the worst-hit areas.
✓ Control rooms are operational 24×7, and coordination is ongoing with the police and Water Resources Department.
Approximately 277 victims have been evacuated so far by combined teams from NDRF, SDRF, Manipur Fire Services, and the Army. Around eight relief campshave been established, sheltering approximately 800 displaced persons. These camps are equipped with medical services by the Health Department and clean drinking water supplied by PHED.
Heavy machinery has been deployed to breach water blockages and clear landslide debris.
The Director of Relief & Disaster Management,Kajagai Gangmei, confirmed that all departments are working in coordination to manage the crisis and mitigate further risks.