Imphal (Manipur): Eight persons, including seven Army soldiers and one civilian, have been killed after an Army post in Noney district, Manipur was hit by a landslide late Wednesday evening. Fifty persons, including 23 soldiers, some railway officials, and civilian laborers, are still missing, buried under the debris even as rescue operations are on. 13 armed forces personnel and five civilians have been rescued from underneath the rubble.
A company of 107 Territorial Army of the Indian Army deployed near Tupul railway station in the Noney district was also caught in the landslide. Rescue operations are still going on. The massive debris has blocked the Ijei River, creating a reservoir that may inundate low-lying areas. An advisory issued by Noney deputy commissioner said, "Due to the unfortunate landslide which occurred at Tupul yard railway construction camp, where casualties are being reported and dozens buried alive, the flow of the Ijei River has also been obstructed by the debris, creating a dam-like storage condition which if breached will wreak havoc to the low-lying areas of Noney district headquarters..."
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"...as the condition is still developing and the future is unknown, the general public is hereby advised to take their own precautions, and especially ensure children do not come out near the river. Whoever can evacuate is also advised to evacuate. Public are further advised to stay alert and be prepared for any assistance in case of rain condition deteriorate further," it added.
It also advised travellers to avoid National Highway 37 due to multiple road blockages. Chief Minister N Biren Singh has called an emergency meeting to assess the situation. "Called an emergency meeting to assess the situation of the landslide in Tupul today. The search and rescue operation is already underway. Let's keep them in our prayers today. Ambulances along with doctors have also been dispatched to assist in the operation," Singh tweeted. Governor La Ganesan expressed shock over the incident and said NDRF and SDRF personnel are on the way to join the rescue operations.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah said he had spoken to CM Biren Singh, and the rescue operations were in full swing. "Spoke to CM Shri @NBirenSingh and Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw in the wake of a landslide near the Tupul railway station in Manipur. Rescue operations are in full swing. A team of NDRF has already reached the spot and joined the rescue operations. 2 more teams are on their way to Tupul," he said. (with Agency inputs)
