Manipur Landslide: 8 Dead, Over 70 Missing At Rail Project Site In Noney. PM Assures All Help

The landslide triggered by incessant rains caused damage to Tupul station building of ongoing Jiribam – Imphal new line project.

At least eight people were killed and over 70 others missing after a massive landslide occurred at a railway construction site in Manipur's Noney district on Thursday. The incident took place at Tupul yard railway construction camp on Wednesday night. Eight bodies have been retrieved so far, including those of seven Territorial Army personnel, PTI reported.

The landslide triggered by incessant rains caused damage to Tupul station building of ongoing Jiribam–Imphal new line project. The disaster also stuck the track formation, camps of construction workers. The massive debris has also blocked the Ijei River, creating a reservoir that may inundate low-lying areas.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Twitter and condoled the deaths and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. He also spoke to Manipur Chief Minister Biren Singh and reviewed the situation. 

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said a team of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) had reached the landslide site while two more teams were on their way.

"Spoke to CM Shri @NBirenSingh and Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw in the wake of a landslide near the Tupul railway station in Manipur. Rescue operations are in full swing. A team of NDRF has already reached the spot and joined the rescue operations. 2 more teams are on their way to Tupul," Shah tweeted.

The chief minister has called an emergency meeting to assess the situation. He said that ambulances along with doctors have also been dispatched to assist in the rescue operations. He has also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each for those injured.

After the incident, Noney deputy commissioner issued an advisory and asked people to take precautions, and especially ensure children do not come out near the river in the area.

"As the condition is still developing and the future is unknown, the general public is hereby advised to take their own precautions, and especially ensure children do not come out near the river. Whoever can evacuate are also advised to evacuate. Public are further advised to stay alert and be prepared for any assistance in case of rain condition deteriorate further," the advisory said.

Travellers have been advised to avoid National Highway 37 due to multiple road blockages.