Imphal: The Manipur government is taking active steps to restore and maintain the free movement of transport vehicles across districts amid ongoing tensions, officials said on Thursday.
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla chaired a series of high-level meetings at the Raj Bhavan to assess both administrative and developmental progress across various departments.
During the sessions, Administrative Secretaries presented updates on ongoing projects and sector-specific initiatives.
The Transport Secretary provided an overview of measures being implemented to enhance road safety and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular movement throughout the state.
He also informed the Governor about the condition of existing infrastructure at District Transport Offices and recommended upgrades to improve efficiency.
The briefing also included progress on the construction of helipads in multiple districts to boost air connectivity.
Following the outbreak of ethnic violence between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo-Hmar communities on May 3, 2023, Kuki tribal groups have objected to the unregulated movement of vehicles through their regions, particularly along National Highway-2 (Imphal to Dimapur) and National Highway-37 (Imphal to Jiribam), both of which are crucial for transporting essential supplies into the state.
Currently, security forces are escorting goods-laden trucks and other vehicles to ensure safe passage along these routes.
In other departmental updates, the Secretary of Veterinary and Animal Husbandry spoke about initiatives aimed at conserving the endangered Manipuri Pony.
Meanwhile, the Director of AYUSH discussed strategies to promote traditional and alternative medicine systems and emphasised the need to strengthen AYUSH infrastructure to improve accessibility and healthcare delivery statewide.
Governor Bhalla commended the departments for their efforts and urged officials to focus on expanding their impact for the greater benefit of the public.
He also encouraged a results-oriented approach to further development.
Separately, a delegation from the Churachandpur Meitei United Committee (CMUC) met the Governor, appealing for the safe return of displaced families affected by the recent violence.
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The group also requested livelihood opportunities suited to the skills of those affected and the construction of temporary shelters in Phougakchao Ikhai, Bishnupur district, until permanent rehabilitation is possible.
A CMUC representative stated that the Governor acknowledged the gravity of the concerns and assured the delegation that select demands would be addressed within the next three days.
He also promised to expedite coordination with relevant departments to ensure timely and tangible action.
