Imphal: As Manipur grapples with the devastating aftermath of incessant rainfall, widespread floods, and landslides, the Directorate of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution (CAF&PD) has taken a stringent stance against hoarding and black marketing of essential commodities. The department has issued unequivocal directives, specifically targeting food items, to ensure their availability to the beleaguered populace.
In an official order, the CAF&PD explicitly stated that no individual, trader, wholesaler, retailer, or any business entity would be permitted to engage in hoarding or unauthorised stockpiling of essential goods during this ongoing crisis. This proactive measure aims to prevent artificial scarcity and price gouging, which often accompany such widespread disruptions. The move is a crucial part of the broader emergency response to guarantee an uninterrupted supply of food and basic necessities to flood-affected citizens.
The public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any instances of hoarding or black marketing to the authorities immediately. Dedicated helpline numbers, 7005319645 and 9862619525, have been activated for this purpose. This collaborative approach seeks to empower citizens in curbing exploitative practices during a period of immense hardship.
The directive underscores the severity of the situation in Manipur, where heavy rains continue to wreak havoc, severely damaging infrastructure and displacing thousands. Flash floods, exacerbated by overflowing rivers and breaches in embankments, have impacted over 56,000 individuals, leaving 10,477 houses damaged. The scale of the humanitarian crisis is evident, with 56,516 people directly affected by the deluges. Tragically, one person went missing after being swept away by a river in Imphal East district on June 2, highlighting the perilous conditions. As relief efforts intensify, 2,913 people have already been evacuated from the worst-hit areas, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive support.
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