Flash floods devastate over 1.6 lakh people; Massive damage occurred

Manipur is reeling under one of its worst flood disasters in recent memory, with over 1.6 lakh people affected across the state. Triggered by breaches in the Imphal and Kongba rivers and the overflowing of the Imphal and Iril rivers, the flash floods have caused widespread devastation, displacing thousands and damaging homes, infrastructure, and essential services.
According to the State Relief and Disaster Management Authority, a total of 35,193 houses and 52 public infrastructure facilities across 643 localities have been damaged. At least 3,917 individuals have been evacuated to safer locations, and 77 relief camps have been set up to accommodate the displaced population.
The state has also reported its first flood-related fatality. The body of 55-year-old Takhellambam Ibochouba from Leirenkabi in Imphal West was recovered on Tuesday, two days after he was reportedly swept away by the Abulok River.
Although rainfall has subsided in most parts of Manipur, the state continues to battle the aftermath. The water levels in major rivers like Imphal, Iril, and Nambul have begun to recede, offering a window for intensified rescue and relief operations. However, several areas, especially in Imphal East, remain underwater. The Deputy Commissioner’s office, the Superintendent of Police’s premises, the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) campus, surrounding residential areas, and farmlands are still inundated.
The situation has also led to a temporary shutdown of JNIMS hospital. In a public notice, Medical Superintendent Prof. Kh Lokeshwar Singh cited safety concerns for patients and staff amid the rising floodwaters.
Meanwhile, landslides triggered by relentless rain have added to the crisis. A total of 102 landslides have been reported, severely affecting districts like Imphal East, Senapati, and Imphal West. Relief efforts in these areas have been hindered by disrupted road connectivity and hazardous terrain.
Adding to the woes, a fresh landslide struck the Imphal–Jiribam highway (NH-37) in Noney district around 3 PM today between Awangkhul and Langkhong villages, blocking a crucial route. The area had only recently seen debris clearance from a previous landslide. According to a Public Relations Officer from ABCI, the company managing the highway project, persistent rainfall has led to fresh mudslides, delaying clearance work. Numerous vehicles bound for Tamenglong, Nungba, and Jiribam are currently stranded, with authorities expecting to reopen the road by tomorrow, weather permitting.
As the state grapples with the extensive impact of the floods and landslides, authorities remain focused on relief distribution, evacuation efforts, and restoration of essential services to aid affected communities.