Manipur grapples with nature’s wrath: Storm leaves trail of destruction

IMPHAL: Manipur faced the wrath of nature on Wednesday (April 24) afternoon as storms accompanied by high-velocity winds and hail wreaked havoc across the hills and valley districts of the Northeast state.

Officials report extensive damage, with the full extent yet to be assessed.

Thunderstorm struck Bishnupur district in Manipur around 3:30 pm of Wednesday (April 24), uprooting trees along the roadside from Ningthoukhong Bazaar to Bishnupur town, spanning approximately 5 km.

Additionally, the Friday market at Leimapokpam village in the same district suffered significant damage.

In Thoubal district of Manipur, along national highway 102 at Waithou, numerous dwelling houses, temporary shelters for internally displaced persons, and a police outpost were swept away by the storm, causing extensive damage.

Imphal East district in Manipur witnessed road blockages as two large trees were uprooted at Irinbung, halting traffic for several hours.

Efforts were underway by the public and Irilbung police personnel, with excavators deployed to clear the road.

In Noney district of Manipur, the fury of nature caused extensive damage, particularly at Dolang Chiru village.

Hailstones and strong winds damaged roofing sheets of dwelling houses and barns, impacting horticulture farms and orchards.

Uprooted trees and fallen branches further contributed to the destruction.

Officials anticipate establishing the full extent of the damage within the next day or two as efforts continue to assess and address the aftermath of the storm.