23 soldiers among 34 dead in massive landslide in India’s Manipur

IMPHAL – At least 34 people, including 23 soldiers, have been confirmed dead as a massive landslide hit Manipur’s Noney district late on Wednesday night.

Reports in Indian media said a huge landslide hit a territorial army camp in the northeastern state of Manipur where nearly 50 people are believed to be trapped under the debris.

The incident occurred after a landslide took place at a railway construction site in Noney where workers were sleeping in a temporary camp.

Indian troops were reportedly stationed near Tupul railway station for the protection of the under-construction train line in wake of rebel insurgency.

#BreakingNews! #Shocking 😱
Very Sad News
Territorial Army deployed at Tupul, #Manipur came under massive #landslide last night.

Around 53 persons untraceable, Bodies of 5 martyrs recovered so far, rescue operation continues.👇

God save our brave soldiers🙏#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/IFOvgGg1jb

— Rakesh Arora (@Rakesh14_Arora) June 30, 2022

Meanwhile, search operations were underway despite heavy rains, with over 200 rescue workers and security personnel using latest equipment to recover the people. However, officials fear the chances of the remaining people surviving are less.

At least 23 of the confirmed dead were armed forces personnel, while five Indian railway officials were among those missing.

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi assured all possible support from the central government. He also condoled the deaths and prayed for the injured and missing persons.

Massive landslides are common in the northeastern Indian region while mudslide comes after huge rainfall. Monsoon rains continue to wreak havoc in several Indian states killing hundreds and dispersing thousands of people.