Cyclonic storm 'Remal' brings floods in Manipur, two killed, thousands affected

While major parts of India are reeling from an intense spell of heatwave, the northeastern state of Manipur is dealing with massive floods caused by the effects of cyclonic storm 'Remal'.

Officials told PTI news agency that incessant rainfall caused the Imphal river to overflow, inundating several areas.

Indian Express newspaper reported that both the Imphal and Nambul rivers have been above the danger level since May 28, breaching their banks in multiple areas.

PTI, quoting officials, said that flooding was reported from at least 86 areas in Imphal West district, including Khuman Lampak, Nagaram, Sagolband, Uripok, Keisamthong and Paona areas due to the overflowing Nambul river.

"Due to incessant rainfall, the bank of Imphal river has been breached near Keirang, Khabam and Lairiyengbam Leikai areas in Imphal East district and water gushed into several areas, inundating hundreds of houses.

"Several areas in Heingang and Khurai assembly constituencies in Imphal East district have been badly affected, with floodwater at chest level in many parts," an official was quoted as saying.

A team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) arrived in Imphal by a special Air Force flight around 10 pm to lead the rescue operations, officials said.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh said, "Due to breach in riverbank in several areas, many people and livestock have been affected. All authorities concerned, including state government officials, security and NDRF personnel and local volunteers, are working tirelessly to provide assistance to the affected people. Those stranded are being relocated to safe areas by boats." Meanwhile, the Irang Bailey bridge on NH 37, which connects Imphal and Silchar, collapsed in Taobam village in Noney district, disrupting road communication, officials said.

In a statement, the SP office of Imphal East district said, "In view of the incessant rains during the past few days, a number of places have been inundated. The police department along with other agencies are helping in the rescue of stranded people. It is hereby appealed to the public to not hamper rescue operations by coming out in large numbers and crowding the place."