DDCC seeks shifting of Tengnoupal District Headquarters to Khebung

The District Development Co-Ordination Committee (DDCC) of Khebung, Machi Block, Tengnoupal District, has submitted a memorandum to the Governor of Manipur urging the development of Tengnoupal District Headquarters at Khebung in Khunbi village, citing serious limitations at the existing Tengnoupal site.
In the memorandum, the committee argued that Tengnoupal village, located on hilly terrain, suffers from acute land scarcity, making it unsuitable for essential public infrastructure such as administrative offices, housing for government employees, police stations, health centres, schools, markets, and recreational facilities. The committee noted that limited scope for future expansion would hamper long-term growth and effective governance.
Other concerns raised include low population density and the mono-ethnic character of Tengnoupal village, which, according to the memorandum, restricts accessibility and inclusivity. Chronic water shortages were highlighted as another major impediment, with the committee cautioning that even basic services like a fire station would struggle in the area.
Security issues were also cited, as Tengnoupal hosts several designated camps of armed groups under Suspension of Operations (SoO). The presence of these camps, the DDCC stated, could complicate administrative functioning and public service delivery.
In contrast, the committee proposed Khebung as a more viable alternative. Situated on vast foothill land belonging to Khunbi village, Khebung has abundant space for infrastructure and further expansion. The village authority has pledged to donate land for the development of district headquarters facilities and, if required, additional land from adjoining areas.
The DDCC also underlined Khebung’s demographic advantage, with higher population concentration and greater ethnic diversity in surrounding villages, making it more inclusive and accessible as a district hub. The area is well supplied with perennial water sources, ensuring reliable provision for both current and future needs.
Strategically, Khebung is just three kilometres from Tuishimi near Pallel Bazar along Asian Highway-1 and is around 20 kilometres closer to other district headquarters and the state capital compared to Tengnoupal. This, the memorandum maintained, would enhance administrative convenience and connectivity.