Rain stops, but flood threat still

Expressing concern over the damage caused by the recent spate of rains, Irrigation and Flood Control Minister N Biren said the Imphal river8217;s bank had suffered a 500-foot breach. 8220;Although this has reduced the river8217;s water level, large areas have been flooded. Efforts are on to repair the embankment. Drinking water is being provided using tankers to the affected areas. We have not yet started distributing relief supplies but we are watching the situation,8221; Biren said.

Large tracts of paddy fields, residences in low-lying areas and some schools have also been flooded. All other major rivers running through the state are also in spate, IFCD officials said, adding that the situation was improving with less rain forecast for the next few days. To reduce the water level, several sluices in the Ithai Barrage have been opened.

Several portions of the NH-39 have also been cut off due to landslides. Reports coming in from Nagaland said vehicles were stuck along some sections of the highway between Kohima and Dimapur.