Breaking Through: Manipur’s Bold Second Attempt to Reignite Inter-District Public Transport After 19 Months

The Manipur government has announced the resumption of inter-district public transportation from Imphal to hill districts under stringent security measures, as ethnic tensions in the region show signs of a lull. The operation will commence Wednesday and marks the administration’s second attempt to re-establish services in the past 19 months, amidst ongoing conflicts between the Meitei community from the Imphal valley and the Kuki population in the hill districts.

The decision follows a comprehensive review of the state’s law and order situation, security force availability, response mechanisms, and inputs from various agencies. According to Chief Secretary Vineet Joshi, public buses will run from Imphal to Senapati via Kangpokpi and from Imphal to Churachandpur via Bishnupur. Notably, these routes traverse areas predominantly inhabited by Meiteis, Kukis, and Nagas, highlighting the ethnic complexities involved.

To ensure safety, travel will be restricted to certain hours, and the public is advised to contact Deputy Commissioners’ offices for participation. The government has urged public cooperation and cautioned against any disruptive activities, warning of strict legal consequences for those attempting to hinder the transport operations.

This initiative seeks to address the transportation challenges faced by residents since ethnic violence first erupted in May of last year, which has claimed at least 258 lives and displaced thousands. Public transit was halted amid these disturbances and a previous attempt to restore bus services in December fell short. Buses between Imphal and Churachandpur witnessed minimal patronage, while those on the Imphal-Kangpokpi route faced roadblocks from protesters.

As the situation remains precarious, the government has extended the mobile internet ban in nine districts until December 5, indicating the sustained need for cautious measures to maintain peace and order. The administration hopes the security-backed transport resumption will bolster community trust and connectivity across Manipur’s divided regions.

Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/manipur/story/manipur-second-bid-made-in-19-months-to-resume-inter-district-public-transport-services-1131985-2024-12-04?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2024-12-04 09:02:00