Public warns of bandh over delay in Wabagai-Sugnu road construction
Source: The Sangai Express

Kakching, March 30 2026: Expressing strong resentment over the prolonged delay in the construction of the Wabagai Lamkhai to Sugnu road, residents of the area have set a deadline of April 5 for the government to resume the stalled work, failing which they have resolved to launch an intense agitation, including bandh and blockade from April 6.The decision was taken during a public meeting convened on Monday at Waikhong Bazar Meira Paibi Shanglen, attended by women leaders, representatives of civil society organisations (CSOs), local clubs and residents from various localities.

The meeting deliberated on the deplorable condition of the road and the continued inaction despite repeated assurances from the authorities.

Speakers at the meeting highlighted that the 27.7-km stretch of the Wabagai Lamkhai-Sugnu State Highway serves as a vital lifeline for nearly two lakh residents.

However, the road has remained neglected for over 13 years, causing immense hardship and frequent accidents for commuters.

Recalling earlier efforts, participants noted that on June 2, 2024, villagers had formed a committee and staged sit-in protests at more than ten locations for over one-and-a-half months demanding repair of the dilapidated road.

Despite these efforts, the government failed to respond effectively.

It was only after the announcement of a bandh and, blockade that the then Works Minister, K Govindas, held a meeting with the committee on Aug 19, 2024, and signed an agreement to begin construction within ten days.

However, even basic pothole-filling work remained incomplete.

More recently, on February 2 and March 15, 2026, MLAs of Sugnu and Hiyanglam constituencies, along with officials of the concerned department, announced the initiation of construction work from both ends of the road.

The project was to be executed with specifications of 18 feet width and 7 inches thickness.

Although the work began and raised public hope, it came to a halt after about 20 days, triggering fresh anger among the residents.

Aggrieved by the sudden stoppage, various groups including meira paibis, local clubs, and associations of auto, Tata Magic and other vehicle owners participated in the meeting and unanimously adopted four resolutions.

The key demands include immediate resumption of construction work from both ends by April 5, ensuring quality and steady progress, and proper levelling of potholes before undertaking Wet Mix Macadam (WMM) work.

The gathering further resolved to impose a total bandh and blockade from April 6 if the government fails to meet their demands within the stipulated deadline.

However, it clarified that essential services such as fire and emergency services, water supply, medical services, education, and customary religious and traditional activities will be exempted during the agitation.

The public has urged the authorities concerned to act promptly and fulfil their long-pending demand to ensure safe and reliable road connectivity in the region.

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