Hailstorm devastation in Manipur linked to deforestation, experts warn

Imphal: The recent hailstorm in Manipur's Imphal Valley has reignited concerns about deforestation's impact on the state's climate.

Experts suspect the unusual weather event, which caused significant damage, is linked to the ongoing loss of forest cover.

The brief but powerful hailstorm, accompanied by heavy rain, struck the valley on Sunday afternoon.

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While hailstorms are not uncommon in Manipur's hill districts, their occurrence in the Imphal Valley is rare.

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T Brajakumar, Director of the Directorate of Environment and Climate Change, highlighted the unprecedented nature of the Imphal Valley event.

He stated that heavier hailstorms have been observed in Senapati, Tamenglong, and Churachandpur districts in recent years.

Environmentalist Rajesh Salam stated that there was a connection between climate change, deforestation, and the increasing frequency and intensity of hailstorms in Manipur.

The state's forest cover has been steadily declining.

As of March 2023, Manipur has 16,598 square kilometres of forest, a 1.48% decrease from 2019.

Poppy cultivation is claimed to be a major factor in this deforestation, leading to a loss of 877 square kilometres since 1987.

Additionally, Manipur has lost 240 square kilometres of tree cover, or 14%, since 2001.