4th January 2016 - India: Manipur

Special Advisory - India: Manipur: Magnitude 6.7 earthquake causes damage, disruption; maintain flexible itineraries (Revised GMT)

Members in the north-eastern state of Manipur should expect disruption following a magnitude 6.7 earthquake that occurred at 04.35 (local time) on 4 January, 18 miles (29km) west of the state capital Imphal. At least six people were killed and more than 100 others injured in the temblor, which occurred at a depth of 34 miles (55km). According to the India Meteorological Department, the epicentre of the earthquake was located in the village of Noney in the state's Tamenglong district.

The temblor caused significant damage to property and disrupted power supply in Imphal. The authorities temporarily suspended rail services, while delays were reported at Imphal International Airport (IMF). However, flights are operating normally at the other international airport in the north-east, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU), which serves Guwahati (Asom (Assam) state). No significant impact on telecommunications networks has been reported from Manipur. Relief operations are ongoing in the affected areas.

Travel Briefing

An aftershock of magnitude 3.6 was reported at around 11.00. Although any further aftershocks in the area are also likely to be less powerful than the initial earthquake, they can be strong enough to further damage already weakened structures and trigger landslides, posing risks to life and property. Travellers should remain alert to the dangers posed by falling debris and should not attempt to enter damaged buildings.

In addition, disruption to travel and essential services should be expected in Manipur, particularly Imphal and Tamenglong, as the authorities repair damaged infrastructure. While no major damage to roads has thus far been reported, the extent of the earthquake's impact will become clearer as further reports emerge. The region's mountainous landscape, combined with the relatively poor infrastructure, means that even moderate-intensity earthquakes have the potential to cause significant damage and disruption.

Travel Advice Summary

  • Any aftershocks could pose risks to life and property and may cause further damage to already weakened structures. Be alert to the dangers posed by structural damage to buildings and bridges; do not re-enter damaged buildings. Abide by all directives issued by the emergency services.
  • We do not hold information on specific flights or other transport; contact the relevant service provider to reconfirm schedules.
  • Anticipate disruption to travel and essential services in earthquake-affected areas. Reconfirm the status of routes and essential services before setting out.
  • Monitor our travel security alerts on India for further updates.