The Initiative & Development Organisation, Samurou, has raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Mayai Lambi road, highlighting the severe inconvenience caused to commuters and residents ahead of the Ningol Chakouba festival.
The Mayai Lambi route, designed to connect Imphal with Kakching Lamkhai via National Highways NH 137A and NH 1, was intended to serve as an alternative highway route to ease traffic congestion. However, ongoing construction work has been plagued by poor quality, negligence by contractors, and insufficient supervision by PWD engineers, according to the organisation.
Local residents allege that despite contractors and engineers being paid for the project, the work remains substandard, with uneven road surfaces, improper leveling, and the use of low-quality materials. Photos and inspections have revealed that repeated attempts at repair by authorities have been ineffective, leaving the road unsafe and incomplete.
The organisation further pointed out that previous funds sanctioned for the Mayai Lambi project and other infrastructure developments may have been misused. Despite approval by the BJP government nearly ten years ago, the road remains incomplete, frustrating locals who rely on it for daily travel.
The poor road condition has contributed to frequent accidents, health hazards from dust and debris, and worsening traffic congestion during festival preparations, including the Hiyangthang Lairembi and Ningol Chakouba festivities.
Residents and the Initiative & Development Organisation have urged the PWD and the state government to take immediate action to ensure proper completion of the Mayai Lambi road with quality construction, emphasizing that timely intervention is critical to prevent further hardship and ensure public safety during the festival season.