Imphal-Guwahati bus service resumed on Friday, August 21, after remaining suspended for more than three years following the outbreak of ethnic violence in Manipur in May 2023. The restoration of the interstate passenger route marks a significant step towards improving connectivity between Manipur, Nagaland and Assam and restoring normal movement along the region’s major highways.
Bus connectivity returns after prolonged suspension
The passenger service operates along the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati route, linking Manipur with Nagaland and Assam. According to officials, the services were suspended after violence erupted between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities on May 3, 2023. The disruption severely affected regular movement between Imphal and neighbouring states.
The resumption is part of the Manipur government’s broader efforts to restore public transport and normal life in areas affected by the prolonged conflict. The return of the route also provides another option for people travelling between Manipur, Nagaland and Assam.
On the first day of the renewed service, 125 passengers travelled using two buses and five Wingers, according to reports citing officials from the Manipur Transport Department. The response was welcomed by members of the public, who viewed the reopening as an important development for interstate connectivity.
Imphal-Guwahati bus service linked to highway reopening
The restoration of the bus route follows a series of government announcements concerning movement on Manipur’s national highways.
On August 8, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh announced during a visit to Kangpokpi that national highways would be opened for people from all communities. He also announced plans to restart the Imphal-Guwahati bus service, saying adequate security arrangements would be made to facilitate safe travel. Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen backed the announcement.
The announcement came as the state government stepped up efforts to rebuild confidence and improve movement across communities. The reopening of highways is particularly significant because road connectivity had been heavily affected since the 2023 violence.
The Imphal-Dimapur route uses National Highway 2, while other major routes connecting Manipur with neighbouring states have also faced prolonged disruption. The government has described safe and uninterrupted movement of passengers and essential goods as an important part of restoring normalcy.
Security remains a key priority
Security has been a major consideration in restarting interstate public transport. Before the services resumed, the chief minister chaired a Combined Headquarters or Unified Command meeting on August 10 to review the security situation along the state’s national highways.
Senior officials, including the chief secretary, security adviser, director general of police and representatives of the Army, Assam Rifles and Central Armed Police Forces, attended the meeting. The discussions focused on maintaining law and order and preventing attempts to disrupt the movement of passengers and essential goods.
A separate high-level meeting involving security officials and transport representatives also discussed the resumption of the Imphal-Guwahati and Imphal-Dimapur bus services. These preparations were aimed at ensuring that the reopening of public transport could take place with adequate security measures.
A step towards restoring normal movement
The return of the Imphal-Guwahati bus service carries significance beyond transportation. For residents, interstate buses provide a relatively accessible way to travel for work, education, healthcare, family visits and other essential needs.
The prolonged suspension had left people dependent on limited transport options while insecurity and road disruptions complicated travel between Manipur and neighbouring states. Restoring the route therefore represents an important practical change for passengers who need to move between the northeastern states.
The development also comes amid wider efforts by the Manipur government to engage with different communities and address the trust deficit created by the conflict. In March, Khemchand said talks with the Kuki-Zo Council could serve as a first step towards bridging that gap and promoting peace.
Public transport resumes amid cautious optimism
Although the resumption is being welcomed, the restoration of regular movement remains closely linked to the security situation on the highways. Recent developments, including an economic blockade along parts of NH-2, have highlighted the continuing challenges facing transportation in the state.
For now, the return of interstate buses provides a visible sign of improved connectivity after more than three years of disruption. Continued security arrangements and stable road access will be important for keeping the service operational.
The Imphal-Guwahati bus service is therefore more than a transport link for passengers. Its return reflects a broader attempt to reopen routes, reconnect communities and support the restoration of everyday life in Manipur. The first day’s passenger movement offers an early indication of the demand for reliable interstate connectivity as the state moves cautiously towards greater normalcy.
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