CM assesses hailstorm affect, vows compensation
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, May 08 2024: Chief minister N Biren Singh on Wednesday inspected the houses in different parts of Imphal East district which were ravaged by the fierce hailstorm that struck the state on May 5 afternoon.

The CM, who was accompanied by Keirao MLA Lourembam Rameshwor, Imphal East DC Khumanthem Diana and other officials, inspected the affected houses at Bamon Kampu under Kshetrigao AC, State TB Hospital in Keirao Wangkhem and the relief camps opened at Irilbung High School.

Speaking to newspersons on the sidelines, CM Biren reiterated that around 15,500 houses are reported to be affected by unprecedented hailstorm.

He further said that assessments of the houses and farmlands damaged by the storm are being carried out by the respective DCs, while adding that the government will compensate all those affected by the hailstorm.

In addition, roofing sheets are being distributed through the DCs, although the rebuilding work of completely damaged or blown away houses may take some time, he stated.

The CM also interacted with the affect ed families and assured of extending all possible aid.

Gathering on-the-spot report in Keirao assembly constituency, one of the worst affected locations in the state, the chief minister pledged compensation to those grappling with the aftermath of nature s fury.

At a specially set up relief camp for families displaced by the hailstorm, N Biren declared before a crowd of afflicted souls, "the government stands with you," emphasising the government's unwavering commitment to alleviating the suffering of those impacted by the calamity.

During the inspection tour, the entourage also came across shattered remnants in Wangkhem area to the sombre confines of Irilbung High School relief camp both bearing witness to the relentless force of nature's onslaught.

Amidst the rubble and despair, chief minister N Biren engaged with the victims, listening intently to their tales of loss and anguish so as to gauge the extent of the devastation and offer solace in the form of tangible support.

Subsequent to official estimate of over 15,000 homes laying in ruins, and victims of the hailstorm seeking shelter in relief centres set up across the state, the government recently announced to spearhead a comprehensive rebuilding effort, starting with the replacement of damaged houses with G1 sheets.

Mention may be made that the state government on Monday announced a relief package worth Rs 6.90 crore from the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) for people affected by the hailstorm.

Under the supervision of the deputy commissioners concerned, distribution plans were set into motion, ensuring that aid reached those in dire need. (With inputs from Waari Singbul Network) .

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