Manipur's Shutdown Causes Food Supply Crisis as Trucks Remain Stranded
Impact of Shutdown on Food Supplies
Trucks and passengers remained stranded on National Highway-2
IMPHAL, May 25: Due to the ongoing shutdown in Manipur, truckloads of perishable goods, especially onions and potatoes, are beginning to spoil, as reported by an official from the Manipur Consortium of Potato and Onion Freight and Trader.
Over 400 vehicles carrying vital supplies have been stuck for the last ten days on National Highway-2, which runs through Manipur and Nagaland. This situation arose following a shutdown in the Kangpokpi district, initiated by Kuki Inpi Manipur, a leading organization of the Kuki community, in response to the deaths of three church leaders on May 13 and the alleged detention of Kuki individuals.
In a related development, the United Naga Council, representing the Naga community in Manipur, has declared an inter-district economic blockade along the national highway in areas populated by Naga residents, demanding the release of six Naga civilians who are reportedly being held captive.
Traders are urging authorities to facilitate the movement of trucks carrying perishable items by providing security escorts.
According to traders, the state typically requires around three truckloads of onions and 7-8 truckloads of potatoes daily.
Currently, the price of onions in the Imphal market has surged to Rs 60 per kilogram, while potatoes are being sold at Rs 25 per kilogram.