In a significant step towards restoring normalcy in Manipur, interstate passenger transport services connecting the state with Nagaland and Assam resumed on Friday after remaining suspended for more than three years.
The restoration of services on the Imphal–Dimapur–Guwahati route comes after prolonged disruption following the ethnic violence that broke out between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities in Manipur on May 3, 2023.
According to a senior Transport Department official, the resumption of the service is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to improve connectivity and gradually restore peace and normal life across the region.
On the first day of operations, a total of 125 passengers travelled along the interstate route using two buses and five Winger vehicles, officials said.
A Key Step Towards Restoring Normalcy
The reopening of the passenger transport link is being viewed as an important development, particularly because road connectivity between Manipur and neighbouring states had remained severely affected in the aftermath of the ethnic conflict.
The Imphal–Dimapur–Guwahati route serves as an important corridor for passengers travelling between Manipur, Nagaland and Assam. The return of regular public transport is expected to make interstate travel easier and strengthen regional connectivity.
Officials said the initiative has received a positive response from members of the public, with many passengers welcoming the return of the long-suspended service.
Passengers Express Hope for Peace
Among those travelling on the resumed service was Kiyam Kumarjit Singh from Thoubal district, who thanked the state government for restarting the interstate connection.
Expressing hope for a better future, he said the journey should represent a new beginning for Manipur and encourage people from different communities to move forward with peace, harmony and development.
Another passenger, Nivedita from Khundrakpam village in Imphal East district, also welcomed the initiative and expressed hope that the restoration of the service would contribute to the return of peace and normalcy.
Vehicles Travelled Without Incident
Officials said the vehicles travelled through Kangpokpi district, which has a significant Kuki population, and Senapati district, predominantly inhabited by Naga communities, without any reported untoward incident.
After crossing these areas, the vehicles continued towards Dimapur in Nagaland before proceeding along the route to Guwahati in Assam.
The successful resumption of the service is being seen as a symbolic and practical step in rebuilding confidence, improving mobility and reconnecting Manipur with neighbouring states after years of disruption.
