Imphal: Incessant rain triggered flash floods across Manipur, devastating agricultural land and critical infrastructure. The Ngaorei, or Laini River, surged past the danger mark. It wreaked havoc in Laii village, Senapati district. Between 80,000 and 90,000 tins of newly transplanted paddy fields now sit underwater.
Ukhrul district bore the brunt of the storm, recording a state-high 91.6 mm of rainfall. Tamenglong followed with 60.3 mm. Heavy downpours also caused the Rangazak Kong river to swell, flooding areas near Chingjaroi. The high water and strong currents slammed into the bridge linking Laii to Kharasom. The foundation is damaged. This cut off a vital supply line for residents.
Farmers remain desperate. Many borrowed money to fund this year's planting. “Our crops are gone before they could even take root. If immediate assistance is not provided, many families will struggle to survive until the next planting season,” a local resident said.
The region faces long-standing connectivity failures. No hanging bridge exists across a 50-kilometre stretch connecting Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung, and Laii. Locals trek across the river on foot. They do this for farming, school, and social events. They risk their lives every time they cross. The Ngaorei River flows from Ukhrul, past the border, through Nagaland’s Phek district, and into the Chindwin River in Myanmar.
Villagers demand immediate government intervention. They want officials to assess crop losses and grant compensation. They also insist on urgent repairs to the Laii-Kharasom bridge. Finally, they are calling for the construction of a permanent hanging bridge to ensure safety.
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