In a bid to mitigate recurring flood hazards in valley areas during the monsoon season, Imphal East Deputy Commissioner Dr. Nivedita Lairenlakpa on Tuesday issued an order directing the immediate removal of unauthorised structures along riverbanks and drains across the district.

The DC’s order highlights that numerous permanent and temporary constructions have encroached upon riverbanks and drainage channels within the district’s revenue jurisdiction. Despite repeated eviction drives by the state and district authorities, new encroachments continue to emerge, obstructing the natural flow of water and increasing the risk of flash floods during heavy rains.

The directive covers key stretches along the Iril, Kongba, and Imphal rivers, as well as their feeder drains, where structures such as kiosks, sheds, retaining walls, and even concrete houses have narrowed embankments and hindered water discharge.

Officials will identify and map all encroachments prior to demolition, and the cost of removal will be recovered as land-revenue arrears.

Residents, especially those responsible for the illegal constructions, have been given a seven-day window to dismantle and clear the encroachments. The DC warned that failure to comply will result in forcible eviction and demolition by the concerned departments without further notice, in order to safeguard lives and property.