Heavy rains trigger flood-like situation in Manipur

Incessant rainfall has triggered a flood-like situation in Manipur, with all major rivers in the state flowing above the danger mark, officials said on Saturday.

Vast paddy fields and villages are inundated by the waters overflowing from the swollen rivers. Some portions of Imphal are also flooded. Several low-lying areas and roads in the city and adjacent areas are also flooded.

Nambul river is overflowing at several places. Vast paddy fields and residential areas in Heibongpokpi in Imphal West district are flooded, causing difficulties to people.

Lepao Haokip, the Irrigation and Flood Control Minister, said the officials are working round the clock to tackle the situation.

There are emergency telephone helplines through which people can seek help from the department. However, no relief camp has yet been opened in these areas.

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh said: "Officials had been instructed to open the gates at the Ithai barrage, so that there is no overflowing of the rivers. The government is also planning to dredge the swallow rivers."

Drivers plying along the mountain highways fear that the torrential rains may trigger landslides blocking vehicular movements.

--IANS

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