Heavy rainfall in Manipur’s hill districts has triggered flash flood-like conditions, causing widespread damage to agricultural land and panic among residents. The Meteorological Centre in Imphal reported that Ukhrul district was the worst affected, with 91.6 mm of rainfall, followed by Tamenglong district with 60.3 mm.
Several villages in northern Ukhrul, including Chingjaroi, are experiencing one of their worst floods in years due to the relentless rain. Large stretches of paddy fields along the Rangazak Kong river have been inundated, threatening the food security of many villagers. Standing crops have been devastated, putting the next harvest season at risk. The Rangazak Kong river, one of the longest in northern Ukhrul district, originates in Phungcham village and flows towards Myanmar’s Chindwin River.
In neighbouring Senapati district, the Ngaorei (Laini) River has reportedly crossed the danger mark, severely affecting villages in both Ukhrul and Senapati, including Laii village. The river continues through Nagaland’s Phek district before joining the Chindwin River in Myanmar. According to K Saloni, chairman of the Laii Village Authority Council, the sudden flash flood submerged and destroyed approximately 80,000 to 90,000 tins of newly planted paddy fields in Laii village.
The entire farming community is facing severe distress as this year’s harvest is now under threat. The only bridge connecting Laii village to Kharasom village in Ukhrul district also sustained structural damage, disrupting a vital transport link. Saloni urged the state government to prioritise the construction of a hanging bridge connecting Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laii villages to ensure public safety and restore connectivity.
He also called for immediate field inspections, crop damage assessments, compensation for affected farmers, and urgent repairs to the damaged Laini River bridge.
