IT News
Imphal, April 9:
Residents along the National Highway 37 stretch from Oriental College to Yurembam in Imphal West have issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state government, demanding immediate resumption of road construction and blacktopping works. They warned of intense agitation if the authorities fail to act within the given timeframe.
This comes after repeated delays in completing the long-pending repair and blacktopping of the crucial highway stretch. Local clubs and residents had earlier staged road blockades to draw attention to the deteriorating condition of the road. Following their agitation, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Imphal West had reportedly assured that the work would be completed within 15 days. On this assurance, the protesters called off their agitation and extended the deadline to two months.
Speaking to media persons, Ng. Noren, General Secretary of Patsoi Langjing Bazaar Committee, said, “The DC had clearly stated that the blacktopping work would resume immediately and be completed within a reasonable time. Trusting this assurance, we suspended our protest. However, despite over two months passing, the work has not progressed.”
He added that initial signs of work were seen around five days ago, when water was sprayed along the road, suggesting preparation for blacktopping. However, the activity was abruptly halted and no further progress has been made. “It’s clear that the authorities are not taking this seriously. There has been no visible follow-up,” Noren said.
According to local residents, a report was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner following the incomplete work, but no concrete action has been taken so far. Frustrated by the inaction, residents are now prepared to intensify their agitation if the demands are not met within 48 hours.
“We want the authorities to understand that this is not just a demand—it is a necessity. The road is in a terrible state, and it affects thousands of commuters daily. If construction does not resume within 48 hours, the government will be held responsible for any consequences that arise from our collective protest,” the residents declared.
The people of Patsoi, Langjing, and adjoining areas have called upon the concerned authorities to act immediately, warning that any further delay could lead to widespread public unrest.