UKHRUL: In a major setback for farmers, flash floods triggered by torrential rain have left a trail of destruction in Chingjaroi village of Ukhrul district, with large stretches of paddy fields severely damaged, submerged and washed away.
The swelling Rangazak River, along with several tributaries and streams, triggered flood-like conditions that destroyed paddy fields in Lunghar, Longpi, Phungcham and Chingjaroi in northern Ukhrul district, besides Bhaibung village in neighbouring Senapati district.
A visibly distraught R. Vidam (45), a resident of Chingjaroi village in the remote northern part of Ukhrul district, told this reporter over the phone on Wednesday that nearly 90 per cent of his paddy field, located near National Highway-102A connecting Ukhrul, Talui and Tadubi, had been destroyed by the incessant rainfall.
Also read Video of Hungry Students Triggers MCPCR Probe Into EMRS Churachandpur
“Nothing is more heartbreaking in the life of a farmer than witnessing such devastation. What will my family eat when our main source of livelihood has been destroyed? After months of hard work, everything has been washed away. I only wish this were a nightmare and not reality,” said Vidam, a father of four speaking to Ukhrul Times.
Appealing for immediate government intervention, he said the affected farming community now faces an uncertain future.
“We fear starvation. Our family sees no ray of hope. I only pray that the concerned authorities take immediate note of the destruction and extend assistance to the affected farmers,” he said.
Vidam also expressed hope that any relief announced by the government would reach the genuine victims, particularly poor farmers who have no alternative source of income.
He is among many farmers in Chingjaroi whose paddy fields have been devastated by the floods.
According to local residents, paddy fields at Marala, Rachanikho, Rakayang, Shidewvang, Shangkhui, Prazyiila, Zyarnila, Mazyiipudoh, Zakangmala, Avangjhun, Angrala, Aramadoh, Rashavang, Ashashaa, Tarozu, Khalavang, Angvenla, Angsola and Hanpula were among those severely affected.
Also read ANSAM Seeks Review of MU PG Admission Policy, Urges VC to Set Up CUET Centres in Hill Districts
R. Visoni, secretary of the three Chingjaroi villages, said approximately 75 to 80 per cent of the farmers had been severely impacted. He added that the full extent of the damage could not yet be assessed because of the strong water current.
He, however, assured that the village authorities would conduct a detailed assessment once the floodwaters recede and submit a report to the concerned authorities for necessary intervention.
At the time of filing this report, the Rangazak River was still flowing above the danger mark, inundating vast stretches of lush green paddy fields. The rising river and overflowing streams have also damaged several standing crops.
According to the Meteorological Centre, Imphal, Ukhrul recorded the highest rainfall in the state at 91.6 mm, followed by Tamenglong with 60.3 mm.
