Sadar Hills CSOs calls indefinite economic blockade along AH-1
Source: Hueiyen News Service
Kangpokpi, November 30 2015:
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) of Sadar Hills have decided to call an indefinite economic blockade along the Trans Asian Highway 1 or (AH-1) from midnight of December 2 over the deplorable road conditions of the highway.
Spokesperson of Sadar Hills CSOs Lamcha Chongloi stated that the organisations had already highlighted the deplorable road condition of the AH-1 a number of times to the responsible department and the State Government "officially as well as through media" .
However, the hope of renovating the dilapidated conditions of the highway still remain a far away dream even after repeated pleas, said the organisations.
Chongloi stated that the CSOs had also warned that they will launch an intense agitation if the deplorable condition of the lifeline of the State is not taken care of within a week's time.
The Additional Chief Engineer, PWD, Government of Manipur met the CSOs on November 23 and assured of appropriate measures.
However, his assurance was another false promise, lamented Chongloi.
He recalled that during the meeting, the Additional Chief Engineer assured them that the renovation work would begin after two days but so far nothing has been done, he pointed out.
Chongloi stated that following the inaction of the responsible authorities, the CSOs have collectively decided to impose the indefinite economic blockade along the highway within Sadar Hills till the repair and renovation work begins.
He further said that apart from the awful condition of the road, the Trans Asian Highway No.1 has been home to numerous potholes presenting a perfect picture of untold misery faced by hundreds of vehicle owners while passing through it.
Apart from this, the residents of villages along the highway have also faced immense hardships.
"It also perfectly indicates the hands-off attitude of the Manipur Government apart from the concerned departments and contractors", said Lamcha Chongloi.
Meanwhile, Sadar Hills CSOs appeal the general public to extend all possible help and cooperation to the CSOs during the stir.
They have urged all State and Inter-State transporters to respect the sentiments of the blockade enforcers while abstaining from any act of defiance.
The organisations pointed out that the transporters are the worst victims of the bad road conditions of the highway.
Sadar Hills CSOs also stated that the department and State Government would be held solely responsible for any untoward incident during the blockade.