Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: Over 500 vehicles, mostly goods-laden trucks heading towards Imphal from Guwahati and Dimapur, remained stranded for the past five days as of Sunday along National Highway-102 between Khongnem and T. Khullen in Manipur’s Senapati district.
This follows a total shutdown called by the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) on May 13.
KIM called the shutdown in Kuki-Zo inhabited areas in response to the brutal killing of three church leaders in a deadly ambush, as well as the alleged hostage-taking and illegal detention of several community members.
The strike has brought normal life in the hill districts to a complete standstill, with business establishments and government offices remaining shut.
The shutdown has left drivers, passengers, and transport workers stranded for days under increasingly difficult conditions. Those trapped are reportedly facing acute shortages of food, drinking water, essential supplies, and sanitation facilities.
Many of the trucks are loaded with potatoes, onions, fish, eggs, and other edible items, which are at risk of perishing if the shutdown continues.
Meanwhile, officials reported that security forces continue to conduct search operations and area domination exercises in vulnerable fringe areas across the districts.
The safe movement of 130 vehicles carrying essential items along National Highway-37, which links Imphal to Silchar in Assam, has been ensured.
Strict security measures are in place at all vulnerable locations, and security escorts are being provided on sensitive stretches to ensure free and safe transit.
A total of 115 check posts and nakas have been set up across different districts in both the hills and the valley.