IMPHAL: A relentless deluge has wreaked havoc across several districts of Manipur, leaving a trail of devastation with countless households submerged and communities grappling with dire shortages of food, potable water, and essential medicines. The widespread flooding has laid bare critical deficiencies in the state’s disaster management apparatus, drawing sharp criticism from various quarters.
Despite advance warnings of the impending crisis, the state’s response has been widely panned as sluggish and woefully uncoordinated. This vacuum in leadership has compelled local volunteers and a multitude of civil society organisations to step into the breach, spearheading crucial rescue and relief operations on the ground. The current scenario starkly underscores significant failures in governance and effective disaster preparedness.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) has issued a comprehensive set of demands to the state government. These include an immediate disclosure of Action Taken Reports from all involved state agencies and a transparent breakdown of all relief package details. COCOMI is also pressing for the swift establishment of a time-bound rehabilitation plan to ensure all displaced and affected individuals receive comprehensive support in the aftermath of this calamity.
A COCOMI team, led by its Convenor, undertook a rigorous field survey on June 1, 2025, to gain firsthand insights into the ground realities. Their observations highlighted the immense challenges faced by the impacted communities, prompting their urgent appeal for more robust management and assistance. COCOMI has not only voiced concerns but has also actively mobilised its volunteer network to bolster relief efforts, including the establishment of a dedicated Flood Relief & Emergency Helpline at Khurai Lamlong Keithel.
Looking beyond the immediate crisis, COCOMI has put forth a series of proactive recommendations aimed at fortifying the state’s resilience against future natural disasters. These proposals include the creation of a permanent State Disaster Response Task Force, staffed with highly trained personnel for rapid deployment. Additionally, they advocate for the setup of decentralised emergency response units across each district and sub-division, along with a critical upgrade of existing flood management and drainage infrastructure in all flood-prone zones.
Furthering their vision for improved disaster readiness, COCOMI has recommended the implementation of a digitalised relief tracking system to ensure accountability and transparency. They also stress the vital importance of conducting annual pre-monsoon risk assessments and enhancing community awareness programmes to foster a culture of preparedness. The committee has also called for the establishment of pre-allocated emergency funds, complete with robust public auditing mechanisms, and has strongly urged the formal inclusion of civil society groups in all aspects of disaster planning and operations to foster stronger state-community cooperation.
COCOMI has made a fervent appeal to the general public, private entities, and unaffected state agencies to extend their support and cooperation to the ongoing relief efforts, whether through monetary contributions or donations in kind. The committee emphasised that collective action is paramount in mitigating the profound impact of this crisis on the affected citizens. For those wishing to contribute or volunteer, individuals are encouraged to contact the COCOMI Flood Relief & Emergency Helpline without delay.
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