Ukhrul (Manipur), 05 August (HS): Flash floods triggered by incessant rainfall have caused widespread destruction in Manipur's Ukhrul district, submerging around 80,000 to 90,000 tins of newly planted paddy fields and damaging a key bridge connecting Laii and Kharasom villages.

The overflowing Ngaorei, also known as the Laini River, crossed the danger mark after days of continuous rain, inundating vast agricultural land in Laii village. Farmers have suffered heavy losses, raising concerns over crop production and their livelihoods this season.

The powerful current also weakened the foundation of the only bridge linking Laii and Kharasom villages, disrupting transportation and affecting the movement of residents and essential supplies.

Originating from Ukhrul town, the Ngaorei/Laini River flows along the Ukhrul-Senapati border, passes through several villages in Manipur and Nagaland, and eventually joins the Chindwin River in Myanmar.

Residents have pointed out that nearly a 50-km stretch between Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laii villages lacks a hanging bridge, forcing villagers and farmers to cross the river at considerable risk during farming activities and while travelling for social events.

The affected communities have appealed to the Manipur government for an immediate assessment of the flood damage, compensation for affected farmers, urgent restoration of the damaged bridge and the construction of a hanging bridge to ensure safer and more reliable connectivity.---------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash