Imphal, Manipur: In a significant step toward restoring normalcy in violence-hit Manipur, a trial run for the free movement of passenger vehicles along the Imphal-Senapati stretch of National Highway 2 (NH-2) was launched under heavy security cover.
The initiative, which began on Saturday, involved convoys of vehicles escorted by State police and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), including the Border Security Force (BSF). All drivers and assistants belonged to neutral communities to avoid any flare-up between the warring Meitei and Kuki groups. Notably, no passengers were on board during the trial run.
According to reliable sources, eight vehicles departed from Kangpokpi at approximately 6:15 AM and arrived at the Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal by 7:30 AM. The return journey is scheduled for 4:30 PM via P. Khullen Village, which is inhabited by the Naga community.
Simultaneously, another convoy of eight vehicles travelled from Awang Sekmai towards Senapati, passing through Kangpokpi around 8 AM. Both convoys were closely monitored by armed personnel throughout their routes.
The trial run follows the Kuki-Zo Council’s (KZC) conditional agreement to facilitate limited movement on NH-2 after the Suspension of Operations (SoO) pact was extended on September 3, 2025. While the KZC has permitted some cooperation with central security forces, it has reiterated that full reopening of the highway to Meitei individuals will not occur until a resolution to the ongoing ethnic conflict is reached.
The council emphasized that buffer zones between communities must remain respected and warned against the crossing of individuals from either side until a peace settlement is achieved.
Recent Security Operations:
Meanwhile, security forces continue to clamp down on criminal activities amid the unrest. On October 5, two individuals were arrested from their homes under the jurisdiction of Heingang Police Station in Imphal East district. Authorities seized ₹38 lakh in cash and 2 kilograms of WY (World is Yours) tablets, a banned narcotic.
In a separate operation, Manipur Police apprehended two individuals involved in extorting money from vehicles along NH-2 near Keinou Bazar under Bishnupur Police Station. A two-wheeler, a mobile phone, and a SIM card were recovered during the arrest.
These developments highlight the dual efforts of authorities to restore safe transportation routes while continuing to tackle criminal networks operating in the region.
