8 dead, more than 50 missing as massive landslide hits India’s Manipur state

NEW DELHI (AA) – Eight people were killed and more than 50 went missing after a massive landslide hit the northeastern Indian state of Manipur.

The landslide hit the Tupul railway construction camp in the Noney district on June 29 at midnight.

“We have recovered eight bodies and rescued 18 people, while over 50 are still missing,” Solomon Fimate, a senior administrative official in the district said.

He added that weather conditions are not good and the tough terrain is not permitting authorities to carry out rescue operations during the night.

An advisory by the local administration earlier said the landslide blocked the flow of the Ijei River, creating dam-like storage.

“The general public is hereby advised to take precautions,” it said.

Manipur Chief Minister Nongthombam Biren Singh said in a statement that he called an emergency meeting to assess the situation in Tupul.

“A search and rescue operation is already underway. Ambulances along with doctors have also been dispatched to assist in the operation,” he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he spoke to Biren Singh and reviewed the situation.

“I pray for the safety of all those affected. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May the injured recover soon,” he tweeted.

According to officials, the landslide also hit the post of Indian Army personnel deployed for the protection of the under-construction railway line.

“Rescue operations are being hampered by fresh landslides and bad weather. Army helicopters are on standby waiting for the weather to clear,” a statement by the defence forces said.

Meanwhile, the death toll from floods in neighboring Assam state has hit 159. Eight more people have been killed in the last 24 hours due to floods.