Centre rushes NDRF teams to landslide-affected areas in Manipur

NEW DELHI: The Centre today directed NDRF to move forces to Manipur immediately for rescue and relief operations in landslide-affected areas where at least 20 people have lost their lives.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has spoken to Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh over phone and assured him all central assistance to deal with the situation arising out of the massive landslides in Chandel district.

"We have directed the National Disaster Response Force to immediately move forces to Manipur for rescue and relief operations. They will start their work early morning tomorrow," Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju told PTI tonight.

Rijiju is expected to visit Manipur on Monday to take stock of the situation there.

Superintendent of Police of Chandel district Herojit Singh said 20 people were killed in the landslide at Zoumoal village under Khangbarol sub-division.