IT News
Imphal, May 31:
Flood-affected victims expressed their anger over the failure of the government authorities to provide sufficient relief materials in many places, particularly in areas of Heingang constituency.
In the Lairikyengbam Leikai area and other adjoining localities, which have been severely affected by the flood since May 28, there is complete disorganization and chaos in the distribution of relief materials.
Relief camps have been established at community halls in the Lairikyengbam Makha Leikai area. While some relief materials such as rice, dal, and candles have been provided, the situation remains dire due to inadequate provisions, especially for basic amenities like toilets. Most importantly, the distribution of the relief materials has been, at best, completely disorganized.
The relief camps are overcrowded and unable to accommodate all the affected individuals, forcing some to live in makeshift tents on the streets, where they guard their possessions. Local residents have reported that relief materials provided by the local MLA have reached some areas, but there is a significant lack of support from government departments, indicating widespread mismanagement.
Many residents, now living on the first floors of their homes, are facing severe shortages of drinking water and food and have yet to receive these supplies. These residents are also housing pets, including dogs and cats, and are unable to leave their homes for fear of losing their belongings.
Volunteers attempting to deliver aid are struggling due to a shortage of boats and rafts, which are all privately owned, with no assistance from the government. In some streets of Lairikyengbam Leikai, no rescue or relief efforts have been made, leaving residents to fend for themselves.
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A victim voiced “the need for the government to address the mismanagement to prevent further chaos.” People from the Laipham Khunou area have also sought refuge in the relief camps at Lairikyengbam Leikai due to a lack of space for camps in their own area. Although some relief materials and monetary aid have been provided by NGOs like Ya-All and local government representatives, the distribution process remains highly disorganized.
Residents are frustrated, with one individual living on the road expressing “difficulty in collecting relief materials while managing and shifting their belongings from homes.” Additionally, many are unaware of the locations where relief distribution is taking place, further exacerbating the chaotic situation.
“The government is urged to step in and streamline the relief distribution process to ensure that all affected individuals receive the necessary aid efficiently and equitably,” an affected resident added.