Several rivers breach danger-mark amid heavy rains in Manipur, alert issued

As heavy rains and gusty winds hit Manipur in the aftermath of Cyclone Remal, flash floods submerged huge tracts of low-lying areas in the Imphal valley.

The situation started worsening on Tuesday evening as the water level of the Nambul river and Imphal river breached the danger-mark. According to the flood control room, two main rivers, namely the Nambul and Imphal River have already reached flood levels. In some low-lying areas of Imphal, river waters entered houses and inundated streets.

Also, a bridge connecting Vakho village and Karong in Senapati district was swept away amid heavy rains. In an effort to prevent further potential risks, the authorities informed the public that the Awang Sekmai Bridge over Sekmai River along Awang Sekmai-Leikinthabi road and Hangelthong over Imphal River at Maibakhul had been closed until further orders.

Meanwhile, the state government also issued an advisory amid incessant rainfall in the state.

In view of the widespread destruction and inconveniences caused to many households and establishments across the state due to rain and floods, all schools in the state which are not yet on summer vacation, have been ordered to stay closed from May 29 to May 31, 2024.

During this period, all activities at the schools, including the admission process, should not be taken up.

All Zonal Education Officers/DI of Schools (Independent Charges) under the Department of Education-Schools, Manipur were also directed to inform all those concerned under their jurisdiction and take up necessary actions accordingly.

Additionally, the Manipur State Power Distribution Company Limited (MSPDCL) instructed all officials of the company to remain alert and stationed at their respective station offices.

The instruction was issued in view of the prevailing weather in the state and heavy rains which are expected to continue for a couple of days.

“In case of any eventualities occurring due to the current inclement weather conditions, immediate measures should be taken by co-ordinating with the concerned officers and officials within their jurisdiction”, the MSPDCL said.

The division and sub-divisional officers have been advised to take up all the appropriate precautions to ensure safety while carrying out the measures as instructed.

The report on the action taken in case of such eventualities should be submitted to the concerned general manager, Corporate Office, MSPDCL at the earliest, the order said.

“This may be treated as important and urgent”, said the order issued by H Shantikumar Singh, managing director, MSPDCL.