The Manipur government has begun reinstating vital transport infrastructure across restive districts, deploying escorts to ensure the safe movement of essential supplies and vehicles through sensitive regions.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla chaired a series of review meetings at Raj Bhavan on Thursday where administrative secretaries presented progress reports on departmental work, infrastructure status, and public service delivery.
Key focus areas included road connectivity, helipad construction, veterinary initiatives and traditional healthcare systems. The Transport Secretary provided a detailed account of the steps being taken to maintain uninterrupted vehicular movement across National Highway-2 (Imphal to Dimapur) and National Highway-37 (Imphal to Jiribam).
These corridors, crucial lifelines for goods and fuel, have faced resistance from tribal groups since the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities on 3 May 2023. The unregulated passage of vehicles has been a point of friction, with security forces now escorting convoys to prevent attacks or blockades.
The Transport Secretary also informed the Governor about the condition of infrastructure at District Transport Offices and recommended improvements for better efficiency. Helipad construction across multiple districts was discussed as part of efforts to enhance regional air access and emergency mobility.
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Efforts to conserve the endangered Manipuri Pony were highlighted by the Secretary of the Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department, while the Director of AYUSH outlined a push to widen the reach of traditional and alternative medicine through improved infrastructure and awareness.
Governor Bhalla commended the departments for continuing their field-level interventions but urged greater coordination and a measurable approach to development. “Focus on expanding impact and ensuring real results for the public,” he told officials.
A delegation from the Churachandpur Meitei United Committee (CMUC) met the Governor separately and submitted a list of urgent demands. The group appealed for the safe return of displaced families and the provision of temporary shelters in Phougakchao Ikhai in Bishnupur district.
“We request livelihood opportunities suited to the skills of those affected and the construction of temporary shelters… until permanent rehabilitation is possible,” a CMUC representative said.
According to the delegation, the Governor acknowledged the concerns and promised that “select demands would be addressed within the next three days”. He assured the group of accelerated inter-departmental coordination to ensure relief and resettlement.
The state continues to navigate tensions and displacement two years after violence first erupted. While conditions remain fragile, officials believe that the gradual reopening of blocked corridors and strengthening of local infrastructure will lay the groundwork for reconciliation and rehabilitation.
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