Imphal, July 16: Torrential rains lashed Manipur’s Noney district on Tuesday night, triggering severe floods and multiple landslides that have left a trail of destruction across the region. The downpour submerged over 30 hectares of freshly cultivated paddy fields in Khoupum Valley, damaged homes, and caused the death of several domestic animals.

Flash floods in the Khoupum Dam area and overflowing waters from the Leimatak River inundated low-lying settlements and swept away critical infrastructure including small suspension bridges and culverts, cutting off inter-village connectivity. Landslides also toppled electric poles, plunging several areas into darkness.

National Highway-37 (Imphal–Jiribam Road), considered a key lifeline for Manipur, has been rendered impassable due to massive mudslides between Luangchum and Rangkhung villages. Dozens of vehicles remain stranded on both sides of the landslide-hit stretch.

Restoration efforts are underway, with construction firm ABCI deploying excavators and dumpers to remove debris. Local sources, however, indicate it may take several hours to clear the affected area and resume traffic movement. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.