As construction of the Indo–Burma Sugnu Road has officially commenced, local groups including the Meira Paibis of Pangantabi and the South Eastern Manipur Development Organisation (SEMDO) have issued strong warnings against any interference in the project. The State Highway stretch from Wabagai Lamkhai to Sugnu had long been neglected, despite ongoing demands for its renovation, and the initiation of construction marks a significant development for the area.
At a recent public meeting, SEMDO Secretary Irom Arunkumar highlighted the road’s deteriorating condition, which has caused significant hardships for commuters and numerous accidents leading to fatalities and serious injuries. He noted that the Sugnu Assembly Constituency MLA, K. Ranjit, had frequently raised concerns regarding the road’s state in the Assembly, advocating for its reconstruction. With the present government’s approval process underway, underscored by involvement from the Governor, Chief Secretary, and Commissioner of Manipur, construction has now been prioritized.
Arunkumar appealed to all groups to refrain from obstructing the construction, emphasizing the importance of the road for the livelihood and daily activities of a large population. He urged that the constructing company maintain high-quality standards throughout the project, warning that any attempts to disrupt work for financial or coercive reasons would be met with resistance from the Meira Paibis and local clubs.
In support of this stance, Ningthoujam Ibechou, Secretary of the Pangantabi Meira Paibi, expressed the road’s significance as a crucial resource for over 200,000 people. The commencement of construction has garnered public support, and she cautioned that any attempts to halt progress through monetary demands or disturbances would face strong opposition from local women, ensuring that development work remains uninterrupted.