Many villages in Chandel District remain cut off after landslides
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, August 24 2015: Several interior villages in Chandel District, including Joumoul, which had been hit by landslides early this month, have remained cut off from the rest of the State till today.

Nine people had been killed in the devastating landslide that occurred at Joumoul village along the Indo-Myanmar border on August 1.The landslides in the district were caused by incessant rain.

A joint team of Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO), Khengjoy Block and Thadou Students' Association (TSA), Khengjoy Block accompanied by media persons had visited affected eight villages -- Tuitung, Wajang, Hengkot, Hollenjang, Tuijang, Chehjang, Mortuk and Moukot to assess the current issues.

Many villages in Chandel District remain cut off after landslides

Many houses in Holenjang were found damaged.

The team discovered sinking of a portion measuring about 1 km on the Tengnoupal-New Somtal road which passes through the village.

There were ground cracks in various parts of Hollenjang.

Not only this, the team further noticed partial damage at the 27 Assam Rifles camp during the trip.

The villagers fled home and now they are taking shelter in Torbung village as they fear further landslide.

Three are 64 villages under Khengjoy Block.

Their produce which includes vegetable is sold in Chakpikarong, Chandel, Sugunu, Pallel and Kakching markets.

The only connectivity to these villagers left now are the Tengnoupal-New Somtal and Chakpikarong-Joupi roads.

However, the Tengnoupal-New Somtal road is not motorable now and that people from only four villages can take the Chakpikarong-Joupi road by means of Shaktiman trucks now.

TSA President Vhum Khongsai appealed to the State Government to provide relief to the villagers who are now facing untold hardships.

Hollengjang Village Chief said the recent landslide in the village had destroyed many houses and jhum paddies.

He added that the villagers are presently taking shelter at neighbouring Hensi and Torbung as they are apprehensive that more landslides might hit the village.

The village chief termed the silence maintain by both the Central and State Governments on the misery of the affected villagers as unfortunate.