Seven killed, over 1 5 lakh people displaced due to flood in Manipur

Imphal, Jun 15: Seven people were reported dead, over 1.5 lakh people affected by the flood in the Manipur valley so far.

Over 1000 houses were damaged completely. Preliminary report indicated that about 12,500 were submerged by water even though reports of damages of houses and crops were coming from all parts of the state.

It was estimated that about 25,000 people were living in relief camps. The government has opened about 101 relief camps. So far about 6,000 people were evacuated by volunteers and security personnel. All available forces including army were called out to help the flood victims.

Local clubs and organisations were distributed free food and water to the localities. The state has been experiencing about 649 mm of rainfall since June 13 last. There was slight respite today as the sun was visible.

Chief Minister N Biren Singh was also constantly reviewing the flood situation. Water Resource Minister, Letpao Haokip said that the government has released an immediate relief assistance of Rs 3.2 crore to help flood victims. About 150 villages were affected.

The minister further added that for those lives that have been lost in this flood, the government has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs five lakh each to the victims' families. He also said the government has been doing his best with all the available resources of various departments to combat flood and to provide relief to the affected persons.

He said that the increase in the rainfall density this year comparing to the previous year is a major reason for the flood.

Letpao said that relief camps have been set up in Imphal West (38 camps), Imphal East (34 camps) and Bishnupur (4 camps).

In these camps, potable drinking water is being supplied by the PHED and basic food materials provided by CAF and PD. Moreover, officials and staff of the Health Directorate have been proving medical assistance and medicines and any affected person can get their needs.

To address the issue effectively and to receive complaints, the Water Resources Department has opened a 24*7 helpline called Central Flood Control Room and its phone number is 03852451550. And the contact number for the Chief Engineer’s office is 8131940147.

Addressing about the issue of power cut in some affected areas, minister Letpao said that the cut is being done intentionally as to avoid unwanted incidents in low-lying areas and any complaints regarding this can be made to the contact numbers provided above. He added that the Veterinary Department has also been providing fodder and veterinary medicines to the owners of affected areas.

Later, the Water Resources minister appealed the general public not to panic and to remain composed as the government has been doing its best to help the public and to prevent such floods in future. He also requested the public to support and co-operate to the steps taken up by the government and his department.