Manipur CM visits landslide-hit site at Tupul in Noney district

Imphal: Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh on Thursday visited the landslide-hit site at Tupul near Makhuam area in Manipur’s Noney district.

At least eight people have been reportedly killed and scores of people, including locals and Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) staff, are still missing after a massive landslide hit the railway construction site at Noney district.

The Chief Minister rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation as well as to personally supervise relief and rescue operations in the disaster-hit area. The chief minister was accompanied by MP Leishemba Sanajaoba and HAC chairman Dinganglung Gangmei.

On Thursday, soon after the report of the massive landslide, the chief minister held an emergency meeting with top civil and police officials to take stock of the situation.

While interacting with Army officials, CM Biren Singh also assured of compensation to those who have lost lives and those injured.

According to the HAC chairman, the massive landslide had caused extensive damage to property and resources, including parts of the Territorial Army Camp.

The massive debris from the landslide has also obstructed the Aga/Ijei river water, leading to accumulation of muddy water which may further result in a deluge in the surrounding areas, said the HAC chairman.

MLA Janghemlung Panmei also visited and inspected the site. “The damages caused by the landslide are extensive. Full-scale rescue operations are in progress. Let’s remember them in our prayers,” MLA Panmei posted on Facebook.

Meanwhile, NDRF and SDRF personnel have reached the site and rescue operation is underway to trace the missing persons.

As per sources, at least 13 people have been rescued so far. The injured individuals are undergoing treatment at Noney Army Medical unit.

As per sources, around 60 persons, including security forces and railway construction workers, were camping at the construction site during the incident.

Meanwhile, Governor La Ganesan has conveyed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family members.

“I pray to God for peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved family members to bear these profound sorrows,” said the Governor. Further, he also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured persons.

ALSO READ: Manipur: Noney landslide death toll reaches 8 as scores remain missing