Unrest disrupting works on NHs : Gadkari
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 07 2024: The ongoing unrest is disrupting works on the two important Highways in Manipur, said Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in the Parliament today.

Responding to a supplementary question on NH projects raised by MP Leishemba Sanajaoba, the Union Transport Minister said the road construction works on the National Highway-2 and National Highway-37 have been hindered and disrupted by the current unrest in the State, and added that contractors are being "obstructed from carrying out their duties" .

The Union Minister said he has held talks with Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh and officers concerned on this issue.

In addition to other issues, the NH projects are facing problems related to compensation [land] .

Acknowledging that the two Highways are facing very serious and sensitive problems, he expressed the need for the MPs of the State, the Chief Minister and State administration to work collectively and resolve the issues for swift and smooth construction work on the Highways without disturbances.

"If the State gives us cooperation, the issues will be resolved and the projects will be completed successfully," said the Union Minister.

Notably, MP Leishemba Sanajaoba had flagged the slow pace of works on National Highway-2 and National Highway-37, and asked the Union Minister if any action had been taken up for speedy completion of the projects.

Yesterday, MP Leishemba Sanajaoba also raised various issues facing the National Highways, especially NH-37 .

While the transport of goods and petroleum products has come under threat from armed militants on NH-37 amid the current unrest in Jiribam and the State at large, downpours have worsened the condition of the road this season.

In April, several trucks carrying petroleum products came under fire from armed militants.

Several trucks were damaged and a driver was injured in the attack.

While numerous civil bodies and political parties have urged the State and the Government of India for establishment of a Highway Protection Force, no action has been taken up in this direction yet.

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