Manipur Reopens Highways to Restore Peace and Connectivity

In a pivotal step towards restoring peace in Manipur, Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh announced the reopening of national highways for all communities. This decision follows the ethnic violence that disrupted movement since May 2023. During his visit to Kangpokpi district, Singh emphasized the importance of unity and mutual support among communities. He also highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the challenges arising from the conflict. The resumption of bus services and improved connectivity aims to foster trust and strengthen relationships among the people. This initiative marks a significant move towards normalcy and development in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 9, 2026, 08:35 IST

Restoration of Highways in Manipur

Imphal, August 8 - In a significant move towards restoring peace and normalcy in Manipur, Chief Minister Y. Khemchand Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen announced on Saturday that national highways in the state will be reopened for the uninterrupted movement of all communities. This announcement was made during Singh's visit to the Kuki-majority Kangpokpi district, where he inaugurated several development projects. Since ethnic violence erupted in May 2023, the movement of certain communities on National Highway-2 (Imphal-Dimapur) and National Highway-37 (Imphal-Silchar) has been severely affected.

Both highways pass through Kangpokpi district. Upon arrival, Singh was welcomed by Kipgen, the Deputy Commissioner, the Superintendent of Police (SP), and other senior officials. While inaugurating various development initiatives, Singh emphasized that Manipur's history spans nearly three thousand years, with contributions from all communities shaping the state's borders.

He noted that people from various communities have made sacrifices to protect the state's territory. Singh remarked, “The struggles faced have impacted future generations. To mitigate these effects, the Imphal-Dimapur bus service will soon resume for all communities.” He expressed concern over certain groups with selfish interests attempting to create confusion among the people.

Singh stated that every crisis has a solution and urged individuals from all communities to trust and support one another. He emphasized that people should identify themselves first as Indians and then as Manipuris.

The Chief Minister asserted that without the development of the Northeast, India's progress would be incomplete, and similarly, without the advancement of Kangpokpi district, Manipur's growth would be lacking. While inaugurating a dialysis center at the Kangpokpi district headquarters, Singh encouraged everyone to forgive and forget past grievances. He assured that the government is taking the situation arising from the conflict seriously.

In a social media post, Singh stated, “Today, a significant step has been taken towards restoring normalcy in Manipur. In the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and legislators from the ruling coalition, it was decided that the Imphal-Guwahati bus service will soon resume, and national highways will be opened for all communities.” He added, “These measures will enhance transportation and connectivity, rebuild mutual trust, and strengthen relationships among the people. Let us all move forward together for a peaceful and united Manipur with harmony and hope.”

On this occasion, Kipgen remarked that national highways are assets of the entire nation and should be accessible to all. He affirmed, “National highways do not belong to any individual or group but are the property of the entire nation. I also agree that movement on these highways should be permitted for everyone.”