A Kuki-Zo organisation in Manipur has renewed its demand for the restoration of free movement along National Highway-2 (NH-2) and National Highway-37 (NH-37) after the expiry of a 48-hour ultimatum issued to the authorities. The development has brought renewed attention to the continuing disruption of transportation along two of the state’s most critical highways, which serve as vital lifelines for the movement of essential commodities, medical supplies, and passengers.
The Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU), based in Kangpokpi district, stated that the deadline given to the authorities for ensuring unhindered movement on the highways had lapsed without the desired action being taken. The organisation alleged that continued restrictions and the presence of unauthorised checkpoints have severely affected the transportation of essential goods, resulting in shortages and rising prices in several areas.
The latest statement comes amid ongoing tensions in parts of Manipur, where security agencies continue to maintain a strong presence while monitoring the law and order situation.
CoTU Says Deadline Has Expired
The Committee on Tribal Unity said its 48-hour ultimatum, issued earlier to the authorities, expired without any significant improvement in the movement of vehicles carrying food, medicines, and other essential supplies through NH-2 and NH-37.
According to the organisation, the highways continue to face disruptions that have affected normal transportation and daily life in Kangpokpi and surrounding Kuki-Zo-majority areas. It alleged that the authorities had failed to ensure unrestricted movement despite repeated appeals.
In its statement, the organisation warned that it could not be held responsible for any consequences arising from efforts to restore the transportation of essential commodities after the deadline had elapsed.
Highways Described as Lifelines
CoTU described NH-2 and NH-37 as indispensable transportation corridors that connect Manipur with neighbouring states and facilitate the movement of goods into various districts.
The organisation stated that prolonged disruptions along these routes have significantly impacted the supply of food items, medicines, fuel, and other daily necessities.
According to the committee, shortages of essential commodities have contributed to price increases in several local markets, placing additional financial pressure on residents.
It also emphasised that uninterrupted transportation is critical for ensuring access to healthcare services, educational institutions, commercial activities, and emergency response operations.
Concerns Over Essential Commodities
One of the primary issues raised by the Kuki-Zo organisation relates to the availability of essential supplies in affected regions.
The committee alleged that disruptions along the highways have slowed the transportation of food grains, vegetables, medicines, construction materials, and other essential commodities into Kangpokpi district.
Residents in several areas have reportedly experienced rising prices due to reduced supply and increased transportation challenges.
The organisation urged the authorities to take immediate measures to restore normal traffic movement so that residents do not continue to face shortages of essential goods.
Allegations Regarding Unauthorised Checkpoints
In its statement, CoTU alleged that unauthorised checkpoints established along portions of NH-2 and NH-37 have contributed to prolonged transportation difficulties.
The organisation claimed that these checkpoints have disrupted the smooth movement of commercial vehicles and public transport, affecting both economic activity and humanitarian supplies.
It urged the authorities to remove such obstacles and ensure that national highways remain open for lawful movement in accordance with existing regulations.
The committee argued that restoring confidence among transport operators is essential for resuming regular supply chains across the region.
Background of the Current Situation
The renewed demand comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions in Kangpokpi district following the abduction of six Naga civilians in May. According to reports, protests and the establishment of checkpoints by certain village organisations followed the incident, contributing to disruptions in road transportation along key highways.
The bodies of the six abducted civilians were later recovered in June, further intensifying tensions and raising security concerns in the area.
The continuing law and order situation has prompted security agencies to maintain increased deployment in sensitive locations while closely monitoring developments.
Security Agencies Continue Vigil
Authorities have maintained a heavy security presence across several vulnerable areas of Manipur to prevent any escalation of tensions and ensure public safety.
Security personnel continue to conduct regular patrols, vehicle checks, and area domination exercises along important transportation corridors.
Officials are also monitoring the movement of vehicles carrying essential commodities while coordinating with district administrations to maintain law and order.
The deployment aims to facilitate safe transportation wherever possible while preventing any incidents that could disrupt public peace.
Importance of NH-2 and NH-37
NH-2 and NH-37 are among the most strategically important highways in Manipur.
NH-2 connects the state capital, Imphal, with Nagaland and further links to the rest of the country, making it a crucial route for passenger travel and commercial transportation.
NH-37 provides another major road connection between Manipur and Assam, serving as an alternative route for transporting essential commodities.
Any prolonged disruption on these highways has widespread implications for trade, healthcare, education, and everyday life, particularly in remote hill districts that depend heavily on road connectivity.
Humanitarian and Economic Impact
Experts note that prolonged interruptions in highway transportation can have significant humanitarian and economic consequences.
Restricted movement of trucks carrying food, fuel, medicines, and other necessities often results in shortages, inflation, and increased transportation costs.
Healthcare institutions may also face challenges in receiving medicines and medical equipment, while farmers, traders, and small businesses experience disruptions in supply chains.
Restoring normal transportation therefore remains essential not only for economic stability but also for ensuring uninterrupted access to essential services.
Awaiting Official Response
At the time of the latest statement, there was no immediate official response from the Manipur government regarding CoTU’s renewed demand following the expiry of the ultimatum. Security agencies, however, continue to maintain vigilance in sensitive areas while monitoring developments related to transportation and public order.
Officials have consistently emphasised the importance of maintaining peace, ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities, and resolving issues through lawful and administrative processes.
Focus on Peaceful Resolution
The latest developments once again underline the challenges of maintaining normal transportation and public services amid the continuing tensions in Manipur. While the Committee on Tribal Unity has reiterated its demand for unrestricted movement along NH-2 and NH-37, the situation remains closely watched by both security agencies and the civil administration.
As authorities continue efforts to maintain law and order, ensuring the smooth movement of essential commodities and safeguarding public safety remain key priorities. Observers believe that constructive dialogue, coordinated administrative action, and sustained security measures will be crucial in restoring normalcy and preventing further disruption to the lives of people dependent on these critical transportation corridors.