Two days of relentless rainfall have led to widespread flooding across Imphal Valley and several other districts in Manipur, with key rivers breaching their banks and waterlogging disrupting daily life in the state capital.
The Imphal and Serou rivers, which flow through the central valley region, have risen to alarming levels following the continuous downpour. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), Imphal Centre, reported that Moreh, a border town in Tengnoupal district, recorded the highest rainfall at 102 mm on Thursday. Kamjong and Chandel districts followed with 96 mm and 76 mm of rainfall respectively.
In Imphal, several localities including Uripok, Kakwa, Thangmeiband, and Sagolband in Imphal West district are experiencing severe waterlogging, making many roads difficult to navigate. Vehicular movement has slowed considerably, and commuters faced long delays due to flooded streets and poor visibility.
Three gates of Ithai Barrage opened amid rising water levels
In response to the rising inflow of water into Loktak Lake caused by continuous rainfall over the past few days, authorities have opened three gates of the Ithai Barrage to ease pressure on the structure and reduce upstream flooding risks.
All five gates of the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC)-operated barrage had been closed until now. However, with heavy rain persisting and water levels increasing significantly, overflow was first detected on May 27. To manage the situation, gate number 3 was opened shortly after midnight at around 12:20 AM, followed by the opening of gates 2 and 4 at approximately 5:30 AM today.
NHPC officials reported that the upstream water level is currently at 769.29 meters, while the downstream level stands at 765.80 meters. The release of water has already led to a reduction in upstream levels by nearly two feet.
The discharge is aimed at preventing potential flooding in low-lying areas near the lake, which had come under threat due to the prolonged downpour and water accumulation. Local residents, particularly fishermen and farmers, have voiced concerns over the sudden opening of the gates. However, authorities have assured the public that the flow is being carefully monitored to avoid downstream damage.
Officials from NHPC and the State Water Resources Department remain on high alert, with further decisions to be made in line with ongoing weather conditions and real-time hydrological data. The region continues to brace for more rainfall in the coming days.
The Chakpi River is also witnessing a sharp rise in water levels. Residents are adviced to stay away from riverbanks and avoid activities such as fishing, citing safety concerns.
Local authorities urged residents to postpone non-essential outdoor activities, including farming and fishing, until conditions improve. The advisory specifically cautioned against travelling during heavy rainfall and warned of the risks posed by flood-prone zones and unstable slopes.
The IMD has forecast continued thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds in parts of the state, including Senapati district, through June 3. Earlier predictions had already warned of heavy rainfall in Manipur’s southern districts, particularly Chandel, Churachandpur, Pherzawl, and parts of Kakching and Thoubal.