Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The Imphal Ring Road project, aligned with the broader Imphal master plan “Vision 2042”, has encountered significant challenges due to the Manipur government’s failure to release funds on time, raising concerns over possible delays.
According to reports, the government owes around Rs 200 crore to agencies executing the Imphal Ring Road project, with the Public Works Department (PWD) acting as the implementing agency.
The Rs 1,760-crore project includes Rs 734.71 crore for civil works, Rs 447.28 crore for environmental mitigation, and allocations for green transport, social safeguards, and Asian Development Bank (ADB) technical assistance.
It requires a 10% mobilisation advance to the executing agency. Of the total cost, Rs 1,383 crore is to be repaid, with the state government covering Rs 138 crore over 25 years, while the Government of India bears the interest component.
The Manipur government, with support from the ADB, has set a target to complete the 51.23-kilometre Imphal Ring Road project by December 2026. Officially launched in February 2025, the project is designed as a bypass to reduce chronic traffic congestion in Imphal city.
The project aims to improve quality of life by decongesting the city and promoting e-vehicles. It is expected to enhance access to markets, healthcare, and educational services, while creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.
The project focuses on inclusive and safe infrastructure for all users and aligns with the Paris Agreement by supporting low-carbon, last-mile connectivity.