Manipur Government Reopens National Highways Amid Protests
National Highways Reopened for All Communities
Manipur CM Y. Khemchand (centre) along with Deputy CM Nemcha Kipgen (left) & Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen (right) in Kangpokpi on Saturday
Imphal, Aug 8: The Manipur administration declared the immediate reopening of National Highways to facilitate the movement of individuals from various communities.
During a visit to Kangpokpi district, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen made this announcement.
Khemchand explained that the decision stemmed from the difficulties faced by residents due to extended disruptions in road access.
Travelers heading from Manipur to Guwahati had reportedly incurred expenses exceeding Rs 10,000 due to the halted highway operations, he noted.
“I will not make promises I cannot keep. Our focus will be on practical solutions that provide real relief to the populace,” Khemchand stated.
Deputy Chief Minister Kipgen supported the initiative, emphasizing that the National Highway is a national asset and should be accessible to all.
“The National Highway is not owned by anyone; it belongs to the nation. I fully support Khemchand's decision,” she remarked.
Kipgen added that efforts to restore connectivity would be implemented progressively, including routes connecting Imphal to Churachandpur and other regions of the state.
This announcement follows a series of blockades that severely impacted traffic on Manipur's primary highways.
The restrictions have hindered the transport of essential goods, trade, healthcare, education, and livelihoods, causing widespread difficulties.
The government also revealed the resumption of the Imphal-Dimapur bus service, which had been suspended due to the ongoing conflict and blockades.
Khemchand assured that the service would be available to all communities, with security measures in place to ensure passenger safety.
National Highway-2, which links Manipur with Nagaland and the rest of India, is a vital lifeline for the state.
Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen referred to the highway as a crucial resource for all communities in Manipur since World War II, highlighting the importance of keeping it operational.
Protests During Chief Minister's Visit
The announcement regarding the highway reopening coincided with Khemchand's visit to Kangpokpi, where segments of Naga civil society protested against his presence, demanding justice for six Naga villagers who were reportedly abducted and killed during the conflict.
A demonstration by Naga civil society organizations took place around Namdilong earlier that day. Khemchand continued with his planned visit, passing through the protest areas without any incidents.
At the district headquarters, the Chief Minister engaged with community leaders, inaugurated development initiatives, and distributed benefits from various government programs.
Development Initiatives Announced
Security personnel stand guard as people hold black flags to boycott CM Singh's planned visit to Makhan, in Kangpokpi, on Saturday. (Photo:PTI)
During his address, Khemchand urged individuals from all communities to trust and support one another, asserting that every crisis has a solution. He called for a unified identity, encouraging people to identify first as Indians and then as Manipuris.
Khemchand emphasized that the development of Manipur cannot be achieved without advancing its hill districts, including Kangpokpi, and highlighted that lasting peace requires collective effort.
Development Projects for Kangpokpi
While in Kangpokpi, Khemchand announced several development projects for the district, including upgrading the Kangpokpi District Hospital to a 100-bed facility equipped with a CT scan unit.
New Primary Health Centres will be established at Motbung and T. Waichong, and the Community Health Centre at Saikul will undergo upgrades, he stated.
The government also plans to construct a significant retaining wall along rivers in the district for flood control, develop new sports facilities, and build a City Convention Hall-cum-Guest House. Additionally, a computerized examination center will be set up in Kangpokpi.
The Chief Minister inaugurated a dialysis unit and a District Blood Storage facility at the Kangpokpi District Hospital and provided ambulances to the Chief Medical Officer.
He also distributed benefits under various schemes, including PM-JAY, TB Mukt Bharat, Mission Vatsalya, PM-Kisan, PM Surya Ghar, and PM-KUSUM, along with agricultural sprayers and financial aid to internally displaced persons and dialysis patients.
Two young athletes, a footballer and a badminton player, were recognized for their achievements in international competitions.
Khemchand was accompanied by several MLAs, senior state officials, and other government representatives during his visit.