Thoubal river bank breach threat looms large
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, July 31 2010: Following incessant rainfall in the past few days and gradual rise in the water level of some rivers, residents of Wangkhem, Thoubal proper and various pockets of Lilong assembly constituency are enduring sleepless nights due to fear of breach in river banks.

At some places, Kiyam Leitanpokpi, in particular, which is under Wangkhem AC half the river bank has sunk towards the river for a stretch of about 30 feet.

Locals spotted the Thoubal river flowing above the danger mark since late night yesterday which was followed by the breach of the river morning at about 6 am today.

Locals repairing a damaged portion of Thoubal river bank

Residents of nearby areas came out with timbers, bamboo poles and chattais to prevent inundation from the overflowing water in the presence of Wangkhem AC MLA K Meghachandra.

At Thoubal Kiyam Siphai Tangjeng Ningthou the water is flowing at the same level as the river bank with seepage at various points inundating low laying areas.

Similar situation also prevails at Moijing Khangkhok section of the Thoubal river while at Khekman section along the Thoubal-Mayang Imphal inter village road seepages could be witnessed.

There is fear of river bank breach at Keibung Bazar section of Lilong AC as the water level is flowing above the retaining wall which is yet to be completed.

Locals complained that about 50 metres of the Lilong river bank is in vulnerable condition and accused inefficiency of IFCD officials in completing the retaining wall construction for sleepless nights being endured by the local populace.

During the course of a whirlwind assessment by some reporters locals desired that IFCD initiate preventive measures rather than adopt wait and watch stance as the consequence would be disastrous.


//-->