Public transport services along the Imphal–Dimapur–Guwahati route resumed on Friday after a hiatus of nearly three years. This significant development saw 125 passengers traveling in two buses and five wingers, signaling a step towards restoring connectivity in the violence-affected region of Manipur.
National Highways Reopened and Bus Service Resumption Announced
During a visit to Kangpokpi district on August 8, Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen and Saitu MLA Haokholet Kipgen, announced the reopening of national highways. This decision aims to facilitate free movement for all communities. Additionally, they confirmed that the Imphal–Dimapur–Guwahati bus service will resume shortly.
Earlier reporting noted: After the reopening of National Highways for free movement of all communities, it was announced that the Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati bus service would be resumed soon. However, Kuki-Zo groups had defied Shah’s directives and foiled government attempts twice in Kangpokpi district. Nivedita from Khundrakpam village in Imphal East district also thanked the government. The Meiteis, mostly Hindu, live largely in the Imphal Valley. The Kukis, predominantly Christian, reside in the hills. The state government has maintained that there are no buffer zones dividing communities in the state, but it has identified certain sensitive areas. A new government was formed in February, nearly a year after the imposition of President’s Rule. It includes representatives from all three major communities as part of an attempt to maintain ethnic balance. He added that this new journey should usher in love, peace, and harmony among all communities in the state, and help people move beyond what had happened in the past.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah had directed the Manipur government to ensure free movement along all national highways in Manipur with effect from March 8, 2025.
One of the travellers, Kiyam Kumarjit Singh, belonging to the Meitei community from Thoubal district, said that this new journey should usher in love, peace, and harmony among all communities in the state, and help people move beyond what had happened in the past. “Let us all forgive and forget the past,” he added. “Let us all forgive and forget the past,” he said.
Earlier reporting noted: One of the travellers, Kiyam Kumarjit Singh from Manipur’s Thoubal district, thanked the state government for this positive initiative.
