Tejas Navale

Imphal: The state of Manipur is grappling with severe flooding following the incessant rains brought on by Cyclone Remal. The heavy downpours have led to widespread inundation in multiple districts, including Imphal West, Imphal East, Kangpokpi, Senapati, and Bishnupur.

In response to the escalating crisis, the state government has mobilised extensive rescue and relief operations. Various departments, along with the district administration, are actively engaged in these efforts. A press release from the government has advised the general public to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel to facilitate the smooth execution of rescue operations. Helpline numbers have been provided by the respective Deputy Commissioners of districts to assist with rescue and relief efforts.

In view of the excessive flood, the government has declared a two-day public holiday for all government offices, public sector undertakings, corporations, autonomous bodies, societies under the Government of Manipur, banks, financial institutions, and LIC offices within the state.

The state has ramped up its efforts and allocated all available resources to mitigate the flood impact in the aftermath of Cyclone Remal. Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Manipur Police, Indian Army, Assam Rifles, Manipur Fire Service, district administration, local authorities, and volunteers are conducting extensive rescue operations. The Water Resources Department is at the forefront, addressing breaches and overflows of key rivers flowing through the Imphal Valley.

Significant breaches along the Imphal River embankments have been managed at multiple locations, including Heingang Chaothabi Leikai, Heingang Khabam Ibemcha High School Mapa, Kairang Awang Leikai, and Kairang Kalam Mapa. Volunteers have successfully controlled overflows at Heingang Khabam Lai Haraobam Mapa, Lairikyengbam Awang Leikai Salanthong, Maria Montessori School, and Karam Langthabal. Additionally, overflows along the river embankment at Kangla Nongpok Torban, Kairang Mayai Leikai (Abdul Rashid Mapa), and Kekrupat near Kangla Northern Gate have been contained.

Various seepages, sliding, depressions, and erosion along the Imphal River embankments have also been controlled. Notable incidents include seepages at Janmasthan Hicham Yaichampat, sliding and seepage at Irong Mayai Leikai and Konchak Mayang Imphal, and sliding and depression at Bengoon Lai Salam Mapa. Erosion and sliding at Uchiwa Mayai Leikai and Uchiwa Heisnam Mapa have also been managed. Additionally, blockages of flow caused by phumdi (floating biomass) upstream of the Sekmaijing Bridge RBB on the Imphal River have been cleared.

The Nambul River has experienced overflow at Moiraningthou Leirak Mapa, Ahanthem Leikai, and Huidrom Leikai D/S Pishumthong Bridge. A riverbank breach at Samurou Makha Leikai is currently being addressed. The overflow of the Tentha River at Tentha Khunou has been controlled, and Bishnupur District has seen breaches and overflows in various rivers.

In Bishnupur, breaches occurred along the river embankments at Thangtek (LBB) on the Khabi River, Naorem Maipaksana Mapa (LBB), and S Samungou Mapa Kha-Jiri Mamang (both LBB and RBB) along the Mayai Loukhong River. A breach on the Nambol River bank at Nambol Naorem Makha Leikai has been plugged, and water overflows have been managed along the Leimakhong River and Nambol River at several locations. Temporary guide bunds have been provided along the riverbanks of the Mayai Loukhong River and other affected areas to control water overflow.

Efforts to manage breaches, overflow, and seepage in eight flood-prone areas, including Keirao Menjor Mapa, Karam Langthabal, Laiphrakpam, and Iram Siphai, have also been successful. With the concerted efforts of SDRF teams, NDRF teams, and local volunteers, these areas have seen significant improvements.

The government has assured the public of its commitment to overcoming the flood crisis, urging citizens to remain calm and cooperate with rescue teams. Through the collaborative efforts of all sections of society, the state government is confident in its ability to provide the necessary aid to all those affected by the floods.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and utilise the provided helpline numbers for assistance during this challenging time.