Hundreds of farmers in Laii village of Senapati district are staring at an uncertain future after flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall submerged vast stretches of newly transplanted paddy fields and damaged the only bridge linking the village with neighbouring Kharasom in Ukhrul district.
According to villagers, the Ngaorei (Laini) River, which originates from Ukhrul town and flows along the Ukhrul-Senapati border, rose above the danger mark following continuous rainfall over the past few days. The swollen river overflowed its banks, inundating agricultural fields and causing widespread destruction.
Village elders estimated that around 80,000 to 90,000 tins of newly transplanted paddy fields have been completely washed away or remain under water, dealing a severe blow to the farming community. Many farmers said they had invested their savings and borrowed money for this year’s cultivation and now fear losing their only source of livelihood.
“Our crops are gone before they could even take root. If immediate assistance is not provided, many families will struggle to survive until the next planting season,” a villager said.
Residents also expressed concern over the damage caused to the foundation of the only bridge connecting Laiii village with Kharasom. With the bridge weakened by the strong river current, movement of people, agricultural produce and essential commodities has become difficult, raising fears that the structure may collapse if heavy rain continues.
Villagers further highlighted the absence of a hanging bridge along nearly 50 kilometres between Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laiii village. They said farmers, school children and other residents are forced to cross the river on foot, often risking their lives during the monsoon season. The danger becomes even greater during emergencies and while travelling for social and community events.
The villagers lamented that despite repeated appeals over the years, no permanent measures have been taken to address the area’s connectivity problems. They urged the State Government to immediately assess the crop losses and provide adequate compensation to affected farmers, repair the damaged bridge connecting Laiii and Kharasom villages, and sanction the construction of a hanging bridge between Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laiii village to ensure safe transportation throughout the year.
As rainfall continues across the hill districts, residents fear further flooding and additional damage to crops and infrastructure if urgent preventive measures are not taken.