Rescue operations were underway after a massive landslide hit a railway construction site in Manipur‘s Noney district on Wednesday night. At least eight people have been confirmed dead and over 70 others, including 43 from the Territorial Army, were feared trapped.

Here’s what we know so far – 

1. The landslide occurred at Tupul yard railway construction camp on Wednesday night.

2. Bodies of eight people have been retrieved so far, including those of seven Territorial Army personnel.

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3. Massive debris has blocked the Ijei River, creating a reservoir that may inundate low-lying areas.

An advisory issued by Noney deputy commissioner said, “Due to the unfortunate landslide… where casualties are being reported and dozens buried alive, the flow of the Ijei River has also been obstructed by the debris, creating a dam-like storage condition, which if breached will wreak havoc to the low-lying areas of Noney district headquarters…”

“… As the condition is still developing and the future is unknown, the general public is hereby advised to take their own precautions, and especially ensure children do not come out near the river. Whoever can evacuate are also advised to evacuate,” it added.

The advisory also advised people to avoid National Highway-37 due to multiple road blockages.

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4. Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted that he has spoken to Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw over the incident.

“Spoke to CM Shri @NBirenSingh and Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw in the wake of a landslide near the Tupul railway station in Manipur. Rescue operations are in full swing. A team of NDRF has already reached the spot and joined the rescue operations. 2 more teams are on their way to Tupul,” Shah tweeted.

5. The chief minister has called an emergency meeting to assess the situation.

“Called an emergency meeting to assess the situation of the landslide in Tupul today. The search and rescue operation is already underway. Let’s keep them in our prayers today. Ambulances along with doctors have also been dispatched to assist in the operation,” Singh tweeted.

Singh also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each for the next of kin of the deceased and Rs 50,000 each for those injured in the incident.