Imphal: Relentless rain turned the Ngaorei River into a disaster. Known locally as the Laini River, it jumped its banks and swamped Laii village. Farmers lost everything. Roughly 80,000 to 90,000 tins of newly planted paddy fields now sit underwater and ruined.
The river current hit hard. It battered the foundation of the bridge linking Laii village to Kharasom village. This link served as the main artery for people and supplies. Now, the route is cut off.
Residents described a long history of neglect in the region. They noted a lack of infrastructure across a 50-km stretch between Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung, and Laii village. People often risk their lives to cross the water for work or events like festivals and marriages. Villagers are demanding a hanging bridge to end these dangers. One resident statement captured the growing frustration: "The affected communities have urged the Manipur government to immediately inspect the flood-hit areas, assess crop losses and provide compensation to affected farmers."
The Laini River winds through Ukhrul and Senapati districts before exiting into Nagaland and Myanmar. The government now faces pressure to fund repairs and pay for the lost harvest. Locals want action on the bridge and the fields today.
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