Guwahati: The aftermath of Cyclone Remal has left North Eastern states, particularly Assam, Manipur, and Mizoram, reeling from its devastating effects. The cyclone has claimed the lives of nearly 50 people and affected close to 5 lakh residents with heavy rains, landslides, and flash floods.
Natural disasters have not only taken human lives but have also left parts of the North East isolated. Floodwaters and landslides have submerged and washed away railway tracks and roads, disrupting transport and communication. The North East Frontier Railway has cancelled trains bound for South Assam, Tripura, Manipur, and Mizoram due to inundated tracks. Parts of Imphal, the capital of Manipur, remain submerged despite some receding waters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia for victims in the cyclone-hit states. In a statement, he expressed his condolences and assured continuous support from the Central Government, which is actively monitoring the situation and aiding the affected regions.
Assam’s flood fury
In North Hailakandi, the breach of an embankment in the Mohanpur area has rendered hundreds homeless. Floodwaters from the KaataaKhaal river have submerged numerous villages, disrupting life and severing communication routes such as the Mohanpur-Srikona road. Similarly, the situation in West Karbi Anglong district remains grim, with the Kapili River flooding over 100 villages and affecting nearly 1000 people. Residents have been forced to relocate to higher grounds for safety.
In Silchar, the Barak River’s water level continues to rise, exacerbating the flood situation. Although the water level remained steady for most of the day, a post-noon increase indicates worsening conditions.
Tripura’s disrupted train services
In Tripura, landslides and waterlogging have disrupted train services in the New Haflong-Bandarkhal section. Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sushanta Chowdhury has assured citizens of sufficient food and fuel stocks, emphasising that there is no cause for panic. Efforts are underway to restore railway connectivity by June 1st.
Manipur flood crisis
Manipur’s Imphal region continues to suffer, with recent reports of a tragic incident where a person died due to a short circuit while pumping out floodwaters. The Indian Army has been actively involved in rescue operations and sealing breaches along the Imphal River, which has impacted over 1.8 lakh individuals.
Landslides in Sikkim
Heavy rains have triggered landslides in North Sikkim, disrupting life and closing the Gangtok-Mangan road. Adverse weather conditions have also affected flights to and from Pakyong Airport, with SpiceJet announcing possible disruptions for several routes.
Rescue and Relief Efforts
Amidst the chaos, rescue and relief operations are in full swing. The Indian Army, local authorities, and various organisations are working tirelessly to assist those affected, provide essential supplies, and restore connectivity.
The devastation caused by Cyclone Remal underscores the vulnerability of Northeastern states to natural disasters. Continued support and robust disaster management strategies are essential to mitigate the impact of such calamities in the future.
