Security Escort Withdrawal Strands Over 350 Trucks on Imphal Route from Silchar

The security escorts, previously deployed to combat extortion by unlawful groups along the highway

Digital Desk: In Imphal, the flow of over 350 goods-laden trucks heading from Silchar in Assam hit a standstill due to the withdrawal of security escorts along National Highway 37. This withdrawal, which began on April 9, left the trucks stranded at various points along NH-37, notably in Noney, Khongsang, Irang, and Jiribam areas.

The security escorts, previously deployed to combat extortion by unlawful groups along the highway, were reassigned for duties related to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in Manipur scheduled for April 19 and April 26. Consequently, M Anil Meitei, the general secretary of the All Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers’ Union, urged the government to implement effective measures to ensure the safe passage of stranded trucks to and from Imphal. 

He also stressed the importance of providing security escorts to prevent potential disruptions in essential commodities supply, warning of potential price hikes and inconvenience to the public.

In response to these concerns, Manipur police's morning report on Tuesday indicated the movement of 376 vehicles along NH-2, connecting Imphal to Dimapur, Nagaland, with essential items, has been facilitated. Stringent security measures are being enforced in vulnerable areas, with security convoys deployed in sensitive stretches to ensure unhindered and safe transit for the vehicles.