Manipur landslide: Toll climbs to 20, 45 missing in Tupul rail
camp
Those killed in the landslide that occurred near the Tupul railway
construction camp in Noney district included territorial army men and
railway workers. The debris has blocked the Ijai river forming a huge
'dam' posing threat to people living nearby. The world’s tallest pier rail
bridge is coming up over this river.
IMPHAL, June 30: The death toll in the Manipur landslide near Tupul railway construction camp on Wednesday night has gone up to 20 dead. Thirteen people were also injured.
Many of those killed belonged to the territorial army who were guarding the
railway line under construction. The victims also included the Frontier railway
staff and civilians. The death toll is likely to go up as 45 others are missing.
Following incessant rains the massive landslide struck the Tupul rail yard
construction camp near Makhuam in Noney district in western Manipur. Search
and rescue operations are underway.
Flowing through Tamenglong and Noney districts, the Ijai river has been blocked
by the landslide debris and as a result the river has been converted into a
dam-like reservoir of swollen waters posing a major threat to the low-lying
areas of Noney district. The administration has warned the neighbourhoods.
Travellers have been asked to avoid National Highway-37, which passes through
the affected area.
“Called an emergency meeting to assess the situation of the landslide in Tupul
today. The search and rescue operation are already underway. Let’s keep them
in our prayers today. Ambulances along with doctors have also been dispatched
to assist in the operation,” Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh tweeted.
“Spoke to Manipur CM Shri N Biren SinghJi and reviewed the situation due to
a tragic landslide. Assured all possible support from the Centre. I pray for
the safety of all those affected. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.
May the injured recover soon”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.
The landslide has blocked river Ijai over which construction is going on
for the world’s tallest pier rail bridge, near Noney.