Incessant rainfall has triggered flash flooding along the Ngaorei, locally known as the Laini River, causing extensive damage to newly planted paddy fields and disrupting connectivity in Manipur’s Ukhrul district.
The river, which originates in Ukhrul town and flows along the Ukhrul-Senapati border, crossed the danger mark following continuous rainfall. The sudden rise in water levels inundated large areas of farmland in Laii village, leaving farmers facing substantial losses.
Local estimates suggest that nearly 80,000 to 90,000 tins of newly planted paddy fields in Laii have been submerged and destroyed. The damage has raised concerns over the upcoming harvest and the livelihoods of farming families dependent on rice cultivation.
The strong current also damaged the foundation of the only bridge linking Laii with Kharasom village, disrupting an important transport route and affecting the movement of residents and essential supplies.
The Ngaorei or Laini River passes through several villages in Ukhrul and Senapati districts before entering Nagaland’s Phek district and eventually joining the Chindwin River in Myanmar.
Residents have also drawn attention to the lack of a hanging bridge along a nearly 50-km stretch connecting Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laii. Villagers and farmers reportedly have to cross the river during agricultural work and while travelling for social occasions such as weddings and festivals, often at considerable risk.
The affected communities have urged the Manipur government to conduct an immediate assessment of the flood-hit areas, evaluate crop losses and provide compensation to farmers.
They have also called for urgent repairs to the damaged bridge between Laii and Kharasom and demanded priority construction of a hanging bridge connecting Chingjaroi, Lower Phaibung and Laii to improve safety and ensure dependable connectivity.
