Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh visited the flood affected areas in Imphal and interacted with rescue workers and affected families.
CM Biren visited Imphal West and Imphal East district flood affected constituencies where flooding and inundation of water occured after Imphal river, Iril river and Nambul river overflowed and breached embankments.
Speaking to the media during the visit, he said that it was a natural calamity. It is the third time the state is facing natural calamities; first it was a hailstorm, then came a heavy rainfall and flood, and another flood this time while the people are yet to recover from the last calamity, he said.
“It is a natural calamity, and we did not expect such a high volume of rainfall,” said Biren, adding that he was discussing with the Water Resource minister that they have to make a comprehensive plan, so that they can find a permanent solution for the future.
ALSO READ: ‘Plastic bottles a factor in blocking river water flow’
Due to deforestation in the hills, muddy waters flow down during the rainfall and all river beds have become shallow, and all rivers now require dredging. He requested the water resource minister and other concerned to conduct a survey and submit a project report.
He stressed that it is solely not the government’s responsibility to protect and prevent such calamities.
The government has taken up necessary measures to assist the affected families, he said, adding he has sent the chief secretary to the Centre for immediate relief measures.
Regarding the Prime Minister’s speech in Rajya Sabha, he said that the PM has been given details about the situation in Manipur, and they are trying to bring back peace in the state.
In connection with holding dialogue with all stakeholders, Biren said that there are matters that should not be disclosed at the moment. While almost all people want peace in the state, there are some who still want to extend the unrest, he added.
“Peace will return in Manipur soon. Do not indulge in spreading unfounded rumours,” CM Biren added.
ALSO READ: Manipur Flood: NDRF launches fresh operation in Imphal
