In a swift and large-scale humanitarian response, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles rescued approximately 800 civilians from flood-hit areas of Manipur on Saturday (May 31) under Operation Jal Rahat 2. The operation focused on the severely affected Imphal East and Imphal West districts, where flooding followed embankment breaches along the Imphal River.
Rescue efforts were extended to areas impacted by rising river levels, landslides, and infrastructure threats, according to The Assam Tribune.
Here’s a summary of key developments from the operation and the wider relief response:
What areas were affected and how were civilians rescued?
Rescue teams were deployed to several flood-inundated localities, including Porompat, Wankhei, Sanjenthong, Palace Compound, New Checkon, Khurai Heikrumakhong Heinang, Soibam Leikai, Wangkhei Angom Leikai, and Nongmeibung Raj Bari in Imphal East district.
Two major rescue columns were activated:
First Column: Operated in Wangkhei Khunou from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm., rescuing 193 people (64 men, 85 women, 44 children).
Second Column: Conducted operations in Heikrumakhong from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm, rescuing 182 people (35 men, 90 women, 57 children).
Rescue operations across other flood-hit zones in Imphal East and West resulted in the evacuation of 408 more civilians, including 10–20 differently abled and elderly persons. All rescued individuals were shifted to higher ground and safer shelters.
Assam Rifles teams provided immediate relief in the form of drinking water, food packets, and medical assistance at evacuation sites.
What actions were taken by state authorities and other agencies?
Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, along with Chief Secretary PK Singh and senior officials, visited Kangla Nongpok Thong, Lairikyengbam Leikai, and Singjamei Bridge to assess the damage. The Governor directed local authorities to monitor river levels closely and ensure proactive evacuation and relief measures.
Key developments include:
- SDRF and NDRF have been placed on high alert.
- Several localities including Khurai, Heingang, and Checkon were severely affected following the breach of Imphal River embankments.
- Senapati River overflowed near Viewland Colony, affecting more residents in Senapati district.
- Landslides were reported in Awangkhul in Tamenglong district.
- All India Radio (AIR) Imphal office was evacuated by Assam Rifles in the early hours of the morning to protect personnel and broadcasting equipment.
- A team comprising officials from the Home Department, Police, and Disaster Management conducted an aerial survey over Imphal East to assess the extent of damage and immediate requirements.
The Manipur government continues to coordinate with multiple departments to provide essential services such as sanitation, water supply, healthcare, and emergency shelter. Residents have been urged to stay vigilant and follow official advisories as rescue and recovery efforts remain underway.