Manipur govt reopens NH-2, resumes Imphal-Dimapur bus service

The Story in Brief

Manipur chief minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, deputy chief minister Nemcha Kipgen, and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen announced on Saturday the immediate reopening of all national highways for free movement of all communities. The government also resumed the Imphal-Dimapur bus service, which had been suspended since the Kuki-Zo, Meitei conflict erupted on May 3, 2023. Kuki-Zo civil bodies had previously barred Meiteis from using NH-2, which passes through Kangpokpi district.

The CM said the decision was driven by the hardships faced by ordinary people, with travellers sometimes spending over Rs 10,000 due to disruptions. Deputy CM Kipgen stated that the highway belongs to the nation and should remain accessible to everyone. The announcement was made during the CM’s visit to Kangpokpi, where Naga civil society groups held a protest demanding justice for six villagers allegedly killed during the conflict, but the visit passed without incident. The CM also inaugurated development projects, including a dialysis unit and a blood storage facility at Kangpokpi District Hospital.