Manipur floods and landslides trap residents as rivers breach embankments

Imphal: Manipur is reeling under heavy monsoon rains. Flash floods and landslides have crippled the state over the last two days. The Nambol River breached its embankment at Kongkham Mamang Leikai in the Bishnupur district on Monday. The breach, which measured about 10 feet, opened around 2 pm. It sent water surging into 100 houses, agricultural fields, and fish ponds.

Strong currents swept away fish from local ponds. Residents and volunteers scrambled to plug the breach by blocking canal sections and shoring up vulnerable walls. Personnel from the Bishnupur district administration, the Nambol SDO, Nambol Police, and the Indian Red Cross Society are on the scene. Repairs remain incomplete.

Meanwhile, landslides have cut off National Highway-37 in the Noney district. A major slide between Awangkhul and Luangchum villages stopped all traffic. This route is a vital link between Imphal and Jiribam. Essential supplies are now stuck.

The State Water Resources Department reports that both the Nambol and Nambul rivers are flowing well above the warning level. Severe waterlogging has hit low-lying areas of Imphal, specifically near Tiddim Road. Landslides also hit the Tamenglong district.

The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for several northeastern states. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue in Manipur until July 26. Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and Nagaland also face severe weather risks. Authorities are monitoring the rising water levels. Residents remain on high alert. "The flood situation is expected to remain serious over the next few days," officials stated.