Manipur's Effort to Regain Safe Passage: Convoy Trials on NH-2

In an effort to restore safe and free movement in violence-affected Manipur, a trial run of passenger vehicles commenced along the Imphal-Senapati stretch of National Highway 2. Escorted by State police and Central Armed Police Forces, the vehicles carried drivers and assistants from a neutral community.

According to sources, the initiative is a gradual step to reopen NH-2 amid ongoing community tensions. No occupants from the Meitei and Kuki communities were on board. A convoy of eight vehicles, escorted by the police and the Border Security Force (BSF), traveled from Kangpokpi to Imphal, marking a symbolic but restricted movement on the highway.

This development follows the Kuki-Zo Council's agreement to reopen NH-2 for commuters and essential goods. However, unrestricted access remains withheld until ethnic conflict resolutions are achieved. The KZC has emphasized cooperation with security forces while maintaining restrictions on crossing designated buffer zones.

(With inputs from agencies.)