Imphal Ring Road set to transform transport dynamics
Source: Chronicle News Service / Waari Singbul Network
Imphal, April 15 2024:
Apart from addressing traffic congestions experienced almost every day in the capital city, the Imphal Ring Road project envisions introducing fleet of women-operated e-buses and e-rickshaws.
Under the stewardship of Public Works Department (PWD) Externally Aided Projects (EAP) project director-cum-chief engineer Yumnam Joykumar Singh, the construction is set to commence next month with completion target set for 28 months.
The project, which is expected to transform dynamics of transportation in the state and is funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the tune of Rs 1760 crore, seeks to deploy 20 e-buses and 52 e-rickshaws, operated exclusively by women.
This paradigm shift in transportation will not only address traffic congestion but also empower women by providing employment opportunities and fostering gender equality.
The vehicles are to be operated under a public private partnership (PPP) model, with an emphasis on prioritising women-headed households in the project-affected areas.
To ensure seamless operations, rigorous training programmes will be provided to the selected women operators, acquainting them with skills necessary to navigate the urban landscape.
For smooth implementation of the 51.23 km Imphal Ring Road project covering portions of Imphal East and Imphal West districts, compensation disbursement for affected landowners and structures is reportedly underway with Rs 110 crore allocated for Imphal East and Rs 69 crore earmarked for Imphal West.
Divided into three phases, Package 1, spanning 19.225 km, awarded to AKELIK Group and Keystone Infra Private Limited (KSIPL), this segment will traverse key areas in Imphal East district, culminating at the mouth of the Heingang Ching.
Package 2 starting from Heingang Ching shall link up with NH 2 up to Sangakpham Bazar and cover Capitol Project, Fishery Crossing, Lamphel and Uripok Kangchup road till Langjing in Imphal West district.
Starting from Langjing near the CRPF Campus, Package 3 shall link NH 37 pass through Tera Sadokpam village, cross NH 2, and proceed along the northern wall of the Airport, Langthabal village, MU South wall, and conclude near the Gambhir Singh statue at Canchipur.
Packages 2 and 3 are to be managed by VENSAR and GKC.
Beyond infrastructure development, the Imphal Ring Road project embraces a holistic approach towards environmental and social sustainability.
Two biodiversity parks with jogging tracts, nestled in Heingangching and Khonghampat, will serve as havens for local flora and fauna, promoting biodiversity conservation.
Additionally, rejuvenation efforts for 10 water bodies, including the iconic Ipum Pat, underline the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.
As the project unfolds, community engagement and empowerment remain integral pillars of its success.
A robust grievance redressal mechanism, comprising both project-level and state-level committees, has been established to address concerns and foster transparency.
Stakeholder participation, including input from civil society bodies, is actively encouraged, fostering a sense Of ownership and accountability within the community.
Upon completion, the Imphal Ring Road project promises to usher in a new era of urban mobility, characterised by efficiency, sustainability, and inclusivity.
By reducing traffic congestion, enhancing connectivity and promoting environmental stewardship, the project will not only address immediate infrastructure needs but also lay the foundation for longterm prosperity.
Speaking on the upcoming project, Transport Department director David Elangbam expressed dismay over the flagrant disregard for motor vehicle regulations in Manipur, particularly within Imphal city.
He attributed the city's traffic congestion not to a surge in vehicle numbers, but to systemic failures.
The director disclosed that 1,734 motor vehicles had been registered this year, with a total of 564,873 registered over the past five years.
Emphasising the necessity for a comprehensive transport policy, he opined that the state requires a solution capable of tackling all transportation issues effectively.
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