Early Monday morning, the Iril River breached its banks in Kshetrigao, Imphal East, causing severe flooding that submerged most houses and disrupted normal life.
According to Kshetrigao MLA Sheikh Noorul Hassan, “The current water levels have reached heights not seen in the area for many years, marking an unprecedented situation. Following the opening of five gates of the Dolaithabi Dam yesterday afternoon, water levels rose sharply by evening, inundating several localities.”
He further stated, “From 5:30 p.m. yesterday until 3 a.m. this morning, local residents and I attempted to reinforce the riverbank with soil, but the water continued to rise. Areas including Sabal Lekai, Nungthin Saibi, Mamang Sabal Lekai, and Khetri Awang Lekai have already been inundated. Currently, around 4,000 houses are underwater. Immediate action is required to prevent further spread, and I am coordinating with authorities to provide necessary support.”
Residents, including children, were evacuated by tractors and JCB vehicles, while thousands of poultry, including chickens and ducks, were lost, causing significant agricultural losses.
Although rainfall has eased in the valley, river levels remain dangerously high, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
