The Manipur Govt is taking decisive steps to restore free movement of transport across districts by improving infrastructure, enforcing safety measures, and addressing concerns post-ethnic violence. Governor Bhalla chaired meetings with officials and community leaders to push developmental initiatives and aid rehabilitation of displaced families.
The Manipur government has intensified efforts to ensure the smooth and unrestricted movement of vehicles across districts, amid ongoing concerns following ethnic unrest and logistical challenges. Officials reported on Thursday that significant steps are being taken to reinforce the state’s transportation infrastructure and secure safe passage on vital routes.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla chaired a high-level meeting at the Raj Bhavan on Thursday, where he reviewed administrative and developmental progress across various departments. During the session, administrative secretaries presented comprehensive updates on current initiatives, emphasizing both infrastructure development and public welfare.
The Secretary of Transport detailed new measures implemented to enhance road safety and streamline vehicular movement across the state. These include updates to existing transport regulations and improvements at District Transport Offices (DTOs). In his presentation, the official also called for further development of transport-related infrastructure to meet growing demand and overcome logistical hurdles.
Crucially, the Transport Secretary highlighted the importance of restoring and securing National Highway-2 (Imphal to Dimapur) and National Highway-37 (Imphal to Jiribam). These highways, vital lifelines for the movement of essential goods into Manipur, traverse areas largely inhabited by the Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribal communities. Since the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities on May 3, 2023, tribal organizations have opposed unregulated movement along these highways.
As a result, the free flow of vehicles has been severely disrupted, requiring security forces to escort goods-laden trucks and other vehicles to ensure safe passage. These escorts have become essential for transporting food grains, medicines, construction materials, and other critical supplies. Officials hope that ongoing dialogue and enhanced security measures will gradually lead to the restoration of normalcy.
In addition to road transport concerns, the state government is also investing in alternative transport options. Construction of helipads in multiple districts is underway, which could play a vital role in emergency transport, medical evacuations, and improved connectivity in remote areas.
Further departmental updates were also presented at the Raj Bhavan meeting. The Secretary of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry outlined initiatives for the conservation of the endangered Manipuri Pony—a breed deeply tied to the state’s cultural heritage.
Similarly, the Director of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy) gave a detailed presentation on the promotion of alternative medicine systems in Manipur. The Director underscored the need to upgrade AYUSH infrastructure across the state to make alternative healthcare more accessible and efficient.
Governor Bhalla appreciated the efforts of the departments and urged officials to continue working toward progress. He emphasized that the growth of infrastructure and services must directly benefit the people of Manipur, and called for greater synergy between departments to deliver on long-term goals.
Meanwhile, the Governor also met with a delegation from the Churachandpur Meitei United Committee (CMUC), who submitted a memorandum urging immediate action for displaced families affected by ethnic violence. The delegation requested safe return plans, employment opportunities tailored to victims’ skillsets, and temporary shelters at Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district until permanent resettlement can be arranged.
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A CMUC representative stated that Governor Bhalla acknowledged the gravity of the situation and assured them that urgent demands would be addressed within three days. He further pledged to expedite coordination with relevant departments to ensure timely implementation of support measures.
These developments underscore the government’s commitment to restoring normalcy and enhancing governance in Manipur, as the state continues to recover from last year’s ethnic unrest. Ensuring the safe and seamless movement of transport remains a top priority for facilitating trade, healthcare, and essential services across the region.
