Imphal, July 02 2010: Decrying the conduct of the Ministers and MLAs who are haggling over the prospect of taking up contract works in the name of development of National Highway 53, Women's United Development Organisation, Manipur has once again drawn the attention of all concerned for proper development of the National Highway.

Addressing a press conference in this regard at Manipur Press Club here this afternoon, president of the Organisation L Phajabi pointed out that subsequent to the difficulties faced by the people during the recent over 2 months long total economic blockade imposed by ANSAM and UNC, the one overriding aspiration of the people has been proper development of National Highway 53.The assurance of the Govt of Manipur in this regard is also appreciable.

However, it seems that the Govt does not really understand the problem of the people who are still facing acute shortage of essential commodities including petroleum products and cooking gas although the economic blockade has been lifted long ago.

Moreover, the conduct of the Ministers and MLAs who are haggling among them selves over the prospect of taking up contract works in the name of developing the National Highway 53 is despicable, 85-year old Phajabi said.

Stating that her Organisation has been working to ensure development of the National Highway 53 since 2005 after the 52-day long economic blockade over the declaration of June 18 as State holiday, Phajabi recalled that after a proper survey on the condition of the National Highway 53, a 5member delegation including herself had gone to Delhi on March 26, 2006 to meet AICC president Sonia Gandhi and submitted a memorandum along with photographs and video footages on the condition of the National Highway to draw the attention for its proper development.

The Organisation had also prevailed upon the AICC president for sanctioning necessary fund to the BRTF/BRO for the purpose.

Accordingly, Govt of India sanctioned Rs 17 crores for the development of the National Highway 53 .

The delegation had also met the Commander of 39 BRTF MP Singh in connection with development of the National Highway.

In between March 2005 and March 2006, the Organisation had also organised around 20 inspection tours of the National Highway.

As a result of these efforts, the condition of the National Highway has been improved atleast to some extent today, Phajabi claimed.

While expressing gratitude to all the civil organisations and individuals who have supported and extended help to her Organisation in its efforts for development of the National Highway till date, Phajabi particularly mentioned the village chief of Sibilong who has reportedly donated land for construction of a temple and a rest house for the travellers.

A documentary feature on the condition of National Highway 53 and the role that the Organisation has taken in its development was screened at the occasion.