Manipur highways have gained renewed attention as Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh pushes to restore road connectivity and public transport in the state. The move includes efforts to reopen key national highway routes and support the return of the Imphal-Dimapur bus service.
The highways are vital for moving passengers, goods and essential supplies between Manipur and neighbouring states. Therefore, restoring dependable surface transport is seen as an important step towards improving normal movement and economic activity.
Manipur highways and connectivity plans
The state government has been working to address long-standing problems affecting major road projects. In June, Khemchand met Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi to discuss the Imphal-Jiribam and Imphal-Dimapur highways.
During the meeting, the chief minister said issues concerning the Imphal-Dimapur highway in Kangpokpi district had been resolved. He also said the state Cabinet had approved a special package for the highway. Meanwhile, work on the Imphal-Jiribam road has moved forward after land compensation issues in Noney district were addressed.
The discussions also covered a proposed elevated highway project. Gadkari responded positively to the state government’s request for early approval, according to the official account of the meeting.
Manipur highways and bus services
The planned restoration of public transport is closely linked to the reopening of major road corridors. The Imphal-Dimapur route has particular importance because it connects the state capital with Dimapur in Nagaland and provides access to wider transport networks.
The Manipur State Transport system already operates an inter-state service between Imphal and Dimapur. Its official information says the service was introduced as part of efforts to provide affordable and reliable transport.
However, prolonged disruption along important routes has affected regular passenger movement. As a result, the resumption of the Imphal-Dimapur bus service would provide another option for people travelling between Manipur and Nagaland.
Security remains a key factor
Reopening Manipur highways involves more than repairing roads or restarting buses. Security and public confidence remain central issues, particularly on stretches that pass through areas affected by the state’s prolonged conflict.
In September 2025, the Centre announced that the Kuki-Zo Council had decided to open National Highway-2 for the movement of commuters and essential goods. The announcement followed meetings involving the Ministry of Home Affairs and representatives of the Manipur government and Kuki groups.
However, subsequent reporting showed that questions remained over how freely the route could be used by all communities. These concerns underline the need for sustained security arrangements and confidence-building measures.
The chief minister’s own road journey through Kangpokpi to Senapati in April 2026 was significant in this context. It was reported as his first such visit through the NH-2 route since the violence began in May 2023.
Manipur highways face broader challenges
The government is also dealing with infrastructure issues beyond the immediate reopening of routes. On NH-37, revised surveys and Cabinet approval for land compensation in Noney have allowed construction work to begin.
At the same time, land-related issues remain on the Imphal-Ukhrul-Jessami highway. The government has said it is engaging with stakeholders to resolve those concerns.
Additionally, reliable public transport will depend on road conditions, security and the availability of functioning buses. Nagaland State Transport lists inter-state services connecting Dimapur and Kohima with Imphal, showing the wider regional importance of the corridor.
A crucial step towards normal movement
The renewed focus on Manipur highways comes as the state seeks to improve connectivity after years of disruption. Reopening important routes and restoring bus services could help passengers, traders and businesses regain more predictable access to markets and services.
Moreover, reliable road connectivity can support wider efforts to rebuild public confidence. The challenge will be to ensure that reopening measures translate into safe, regular and genuinely accessible movement for all communities.
Overall, the government’s highway and transport push marks an important part of Manipur’s broader effort to restore normal life. Continued coordination between state authorities, the Centre, security agencies and local stakeholders will remain crucial for making that progress durable.
