Fuel transporters operating along National Highway-37 (NH-37), one of Manipur’s most crucial supply routes, have urged Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to take immediate action against the alleged extortion of commercial vehicles. Warning that the situation has become increasingly difficult for transport operators, the transporters have stated that they may be compelled to suspend fuel transportation if effective measures are not taken promptly.
The transporters claimed that repeated incidents of alleged illegal collection of money along the highway are disrupting the movement of petroleum products and placing an additional financial burden on transport operators. They appealed to the state government to ensure the free and safe movement of fuel tankers, highlighting the importance of NH-37 as a vital lifeline connecting Manipur with the rest of the country.
The appeal comes amid growing concerns about maintaining uninterrupted fuel supplies to the state.
NH-37 Remains a Critical Supply Corridor
National Highway-37 serves as one of the principal routes for transporting essential commodities, including petrol, diesel, cooking gas, food items, medicines, and other necessities into Manipur.
Any disruption along this highway has the potential to affect the state’s supply chain and create difficulties for businesses as well as the general public. Fuel transporters noted that smooth movement of tankers is essential not only for the petroleum sector but also for maintaining overall economic activity across the state.
Given the strategic importance of NH-37, transport operators urged the government to strengthen security arrangements and ensure that commercial vehicles can travel without fear of obstruction or illegal demands.
Transporters Warn of Possible Shutdown
Expressing dissatisfaction over the prevailing situation, representatives of the fuel transporters warned that they could be forced to halt transportation services if their concerns remain unaddressed.
According to the transporters, continued operation under such circumstances has become increasingly difficult due to rising operational costs and security concerns. They stated that any decision to suspend transportation would be taken only as a last resort but emphasised that immediate government intervention is necessary to prevent such a situation.
The transporters appealed to the Chief Minister to initiate concrete measures that would allow them to continue operations without disruption while ensuring the safety of drivers and support staff.
Appeal for Immediate Government Intervention
The transporters have urged the Chief Minister and the state administration to take swift action to eliminate alleged extortion along NH-37.
They called for stronger enforcement measures, increased deployment of security personnel, and regular monitoring of vulnerable stretches of the highway. According to the transporters, enhanced patrolling and strict legal action against individuals involved in illegal activities would help restore confidence among transport operators.
They also requested continuous coordination between the transport department, law enforcement agencies, and district authorities to ensure uninterrupted movement of fuel tankers.
The transporters stressed that protecting essential supply routes should remain a priority for the administration.
Concerns Over Fuel Supply and Public Impact
Industry representatives cautioned that any prolonged disruption in fuel transportation could affect fuel availability across Manipur.
Petrol and diesel are essential for transportation, emergency services, agriculture, commercial activities, and daily life. Any interruption in supply may have wider economic implications, affecting businesses, public transport, and various sectors dependent on uninterrupted fuel availability.
Transporters emphasised that their objective is not to disrupt supplies but to draw the government’s attention to the challenges they face while transporting essential commodities.
They urged authorities to resolve the issue before it affects the state’s supply chain.
Demand for Enhanced Security Along the Highway
The transporters have also sought enhanced security arrangements on NH-37 to ensure the safe movement of commercial vehicles.
They recommended increased police patrols, regular highway surveillance, and quick response mechanisms to address incidents reported by drivers. Improved coordination among security agencies was also suggested to maintain law and order along vulnerable stretches of the route.
According to transport operators, visible security presence would not only discourage illegal activities but also provide confidence to drivers transporting essential goods across the state.
They stressed that maintaining secure highways is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted logistics operations.
Importance of Protecting Essential Transport Networks
Experts note that uninterrupted transportation infrastructure is critical for states like Manipur, where road connectivity plays a central role in the movement of essential commodities.
Efficient logistics ensure the regular supply of fuel, food, medicines, construction materials, and industrial goods, supporting both economic stability and public welfare. Any disruption along major highways can quickly affect supply chains and increase transportation costs.
The transporters maintained that resolving issues on NH-37 would contribute to smoother logistics operations while strengthening public confidence in the state’s transport network.
They reiterated their willingness to continue providing uninterrupted services once appropriate measures are implemented.
Awaiting Government Response
The fuel transporters are now awaiting a response from the Manipur government regarding their appeal.
They expressed hope that the administration would take immediate steps to address the alleged extortion and ensure that commercial vehicles carrying essential commodities can move safely along NH-37 without facing unnecessary obstacles.
The issue has once again highlighted the importance of maintaining secure transport corridors for the uninterrupted supply of essential goods. As the state government reviews the transporters’ concerns, stakeholders remain hopeful that timely intervention will prevent a shutdown of fuel transportation, protect supply chains, and ensure the continued availability of petroleum products across Manipur while strengthening law and order along one of the state’s most critical national highways.