Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, September 16:
To ward off flood woes in the surrounding areas of Ikokpat and Kharungpat (wetlands), the Integrated Rural Development Agency (IRDA) has appealed to the local MLAs concerned to dredge the water outlets from the two wetlands.
IRDA secretary Rajauddin observed that the surrounding areas of Ikokpat and Kharungpat are often worst affected by flood in Thoubal district.
Even as many small rivers and rivulets into these two wetlands, all the outlets such as Ningol Maril, Natak Maril and Nongyai Maril have been all filled up.
Until and unless these outlets are dredged, the villagers of the surrounding areas are under constant threat of flood, he noted.
Talking to reporters today at a relief camp where people of 28 flood affected families of Sekmaijin area have been taking shelter, Rajauddin informed several families of Sekmaijin under Wabagai A/C were completely by the recent flood.
One displaced Zaheda lamented, "The recent flood not only submerged our home but also carried away fishes reared in a farm covering about two hectares in area.
With it, all our hopes to earn several thousands of rupees during Ningol Chakkouba this year have also been completely shattered".
Another inmate of the relief camp said, "We live by fishing in lake.
We feel homesick here even though our dwelling place was just a hovel.
We feel embarrassed and ashamed to stay here together with other people".
Besides this camp at Merciful English School at Hangul, Sekmaijin, hundreds of displaced people are still taking shelter at different camps at Hangul LP Madrassa, Uchiwa Nastao LP School, Hiyanglam Young Defence Club and others.
Completely ruined by the devastating flood, the displaced people are living on the relief materials provided by civil organisations and the public, conveyed Rajauddin.