Rains cause landslides, river swelling in Manipur

Imphal May 22: Torrential rains in the past few days triggered landslides, swelling of rivers and inundated low lying areas in Manipur's hill districts.

Tamenglong district has been cut off since road communication has been disrupted, officials told IANS on Sunday.

Many residence are facing scarcity of rice and other consumer items.

Vehicles are stranded as multiple landslides have blocked the roads.

The Border Road Organisation and Public Works Department are yet to clear the debris in the national and state highways.

Officials warned of more landslides as heavy rains continued. Various items cannot be transported from Assam as the NH 37 is blocked.

Legalised border trade at Moreh is suspended as the Trans Asian highway is breached and depressed at many places following heavy rains in Tengnoupal sub division. The tract was damaged in earthquake and heavy downpour in January.

Flash floods have overflowed a number of fish farms in Bishunupur district incurring heavy losses to farmers.

The rivers in Thoubal district overflowed and flooded several residential areas. The Thoubal river is also running above the warning level.

Schools, market places and other low lying areas in and around Imphal are flooded.

Officials fear that if the rains continue, there will be multiple landslides along the NH 2 that runs through Nagaland. In such an eventuality, Manipur will be cut off and essential commodities including consumer items and fuel cannot be brought to the state.

IANS