Cyclonic Storm Causes Havoc in Many Parts of Manipur

Imphal, Apr 19 : Over 100 houses in different parts of Manipur state were damaged following a cyclonic storm and heavy winds during the wee hours of Sunday.

The storm swept across the State and left a trail of destruction in many areas.

The gale, accompanied by hailstones, caused widespread damage in different parts of Bishnupur and Imphal West districts, however, there were no reports of human casualties.

"Yesterday, when all people were asleep at around 1.45 or 2.00 am, there were violent storms that occurred twice. The first one was a strong one and continued for a longer period. However, the second storm was stronger than the first one and continued for a short period," said Chaoba Nameirakpam, a villager.

Some of the houses were totally razed while tin roofs of many houses were blown away. The storm also uprooted many trees and electric poles, and led to snapping of wires.

More than 50 houses were damaged in Oinam Assembly constituency of Bishnupur district. The gale left a similar trail of destruction at Chajing Karam in Imphal West district as well.

Apart from the houses, the storm also razed down a school. Local residents here are faced with a lot of inconvenience, as fallen electric poles are still lying across roads.

ANI