Manipur is battling a relentless monsoon assault, with torrential rains sending rivers into a destructive frenzy. Imphal West and Imphal East districts have borne the brunt of the watery wrath, with overflowing rivers displacing thousands.
The state government has scrambled to respond, declaring a one-day holiday for all government offices today and extending the school closure until tomorrow to allow rescue and relief teams unhindered access to affected areas.
The situation escalated dramatically when the Imphal River breached its embankments near Singjamei Oinam Thingel. A torrent of water surged through the area, inundating homes and swallowing a vital 3-kilometer stretch of the India-Myanmar trade route. This watery siege wasn't an isolated event. The Kongba and Iril Rivers mirrored the Imphal's destructive course, their swollen currents spilling into nearby communities, turning streets into canals and homes into temporary islands. Officials estimate that over a thousand residents have been forced to flee their flooded dwellings, seeking refuge on higher ground.
Adding a sombre note to the unfolding crisis, a search and rescue team recovered the body of a 25-year-old man who was swept away by the Senapati River's treacherous currents on Tuesday. The relentless downpour that has pummeled Manipur for days is seen as the primary culprit behind the riverine rampage.
With the situation remaining fluid, authorities are bracing for further developments. Relief efforts are in full swing, with teams working tirelessly to evacuate stranded residents and provide essential supplies. The coming days will be crucial in determining the full extent of the damage and ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected by this natural disaster.
