Multiple landslides choke NH-37 in Manipur since I-Day; police say highway may open on Friday

The landslides occurred between Irang and Awangkhul part 2 and Irang and Khongsang. Clearing of the debris is proving to be a major challenge in Awangkhul as massive boulders are blocking the highway, the police said.

“However, work to clear the debris is continuing 24×7 to ensure movement of traffic on the highway by Friday,” the police added.

Since NH-37 is out of bounds, movement of vehicles along the NH-2 has been ensured, said official sources.

A statement issued by the police control room said as many as 142 vehicles have used the NH-2 since the closure of NH-37. “Strict security measures have been taken in all vulnerable locations and security convoys have been provided in sensitive stretches in order to ensure free and safe movement of the vehicles,” said the statement.

Manipur had been on the boil since May 3 after violence broke out between the Meitei and Zo-Kuki tribes following a solidarity march in the Churachandpur district.

Subsequently, the movement of vehicles, including private cars, had been substantially affected along the NH-2 (Imphal-Dimapur road) which passes through the Kangpokpi district, an area dominated by the Kuki-Zo tribe. Notably, most of the essential commodities are brought via the NH-37 or the Imphal-Jiribam road connecting Assam.