In a significant move to restore normalcy in violence-hit Manipur, the state government has resumed public transport services under heavy security after a 19-month suspension. Buses will operate between Meitei-dominated plains and Kuki-Zo-dominated hills, with strict measures in place to ensure safety and prevent disruptions.
By PC Bureau
The Manipur government has announced the resumption of inter-district public transport services, starting Wednesday, amid tight security and a relative lull in ethnic violence. According to an official order, buses will operate between the Meitei-dominated Imphal Valley and the Kuki-Zo-dominated hill districts in an effort to restore normalcy and address public grievances.
The public transport system was suspended 19 months ago when ethnic clashes between the Meitei and Kuki communities erupted, leading to widespread violence, destruction, and disruption of essential services. Instances of trucks being torched, drivers assaulted, and blockades on key highways compounded the state’s woes.
The new initiative will see public vehicles running between Imphal and Senapati via Kangpokpi, as well as Imphal and Churachandpur via Bishnupur. Security forces have been deployed along these routes, and movement will be restricted to designated hours. The administration has urged residents to cooperate and refrain from violence, warning that strict action will be taken against those disrupting vehicle movement.
The Chief Secretary, Vineet Joshi, stated in the order that the decision was taken after assessing the law-and-order situation and consulting security agencies. The resumption of transport aims to ease challenges faced by residents due to the prolonged suspension of services.
Ethnic clashes in Manipur since May 2023 have left at least 258 people dead and thousands displaced. Public transport had previously been attempted in December last year but failed due to protests and blockades. This second attempt comes as part of broader efforts to stabilize the state.
Economic Impact and Government Response
The violence has led to economic blockades, skyrocketing prices, and severe shortages of essential goods. Fuel, cooking gas, and food items became exorbitantly expensive, forcing residents to endure long queues and rationing. To mitigate the crisis, the government relied on goods trains to transport supplies to Khongsang railway station in Noney district, circumventing highway blockades. Eight successful train trips have brought relief, with additional supplies airlifted during critical periods.
Despite challenges, the government managed to escort goods vehicles through the Imphal-Jiribam highway and bring commodities from Guwahati. Each train bogie, with a capacity of 60 metric tonnes, was a significant lifeline during the crisis.
This renewed push for public transport reflects the administration’s commitment to restoring normalcy and rebuilding trust among Manipur’s diverse communities. However, the success of this initiative hinges on sustained peace and cooperation from all stakeholders.
