Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh has assured safe travel for the Kuki-Zo community during the flag-off of the NH-137A road project, addressing security concerns amid ongoing tensions in the state. Speaking at the event, the chief minister said the government remains committed to ensuring that infrastructure development proceeds without compromising the safety and dignity of any community.
The assurance came as the NH-137A project holds strategic and developmental importance, particularly for hill areas inhabited by Kuki-Zo people. The chief minister emphasised that development must unite communities rather than deepen divisions.
The road project aims to improve connectivity, boost economic activity, and strengthen access to essential services in remote regions of Manipur.
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Safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community reiterated
CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh said the safe travel assurance for the Kuki-Zo community remains a priority during the execution of the NH-137A road project. He acknowledged concerns raised by community representatives regarding movement and security along key routes.
According to the chief minister, the state administration has instructed security agencies to ensure smooth and secure travel for all residents, workers, and officials involved in the project.
He stressed that no citizen should feel unsafe while travelling for work, education, healthcare, or daily needs, especially during major infrastructure initiatives.
NH-137A road project and its significance
The NH-137A road project aims to enhance connectivity between interior hill areas and major transport corridors. Officials said improved road infrastructure will reduce travel time and improve access to markets, hospitals, and educational institutions.
For the Kuki-Zo community, the project holds particular importance, as many villages remain geographically isolated. Therefore, better connectivity could translate into improved livelihoods and social mobility.
The chief minister said the government views NH-137A as a development lifeline rather than merely a construction project.
Addressing security concerns during project execution
Security concerns have remained central to discussions around infrastructure projects in Manipur. Acknowledging this reality, the chief minister said adequate security arrangements will accompany every phase of the NH-137A project.
The safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community, he said, includes deployment of security personnel, regular monitoring, and coordination with local leaders. These measures aim to prevent incidents and build confidence among residents.
Officials said maintaining peace along the construction corridor remains essential for timely completion.
Message of inclusivity and trust
CM Singh used the occasion to send a message of inclusivity. He said development cannot succeed in an atmosphere of fear or exclusion.
By assuring safe travel for the Kuki-Zo community, the government seeks to rebuild trust and encourage cooperation. The chief minister said dialogue and reassurance remain as important as physical infrastructure.
He added that the government will continue engaging with community leaders to address concerns proactively.
Role of infrastructure in peace-building
The chief minister highlighted the role of infrastructure in promoting peace and stability. He said roads connect not only places but also people.
The NH-137A project, he noted, has the potential to foster economic interdependence and social interaction, reducing isolation and misunderstanding. Therefore, ensuring safety during its execution remains crucial.
The safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community, he said, reflects this broader peace-building approach.
Administrative and security coordination
Officials said the state administration has strengthened coordination between civil authorities and security forces to support the project. Regular reviews will assess ground conditions and respond to emerging challenges.
District administrations have been instructed to maintain communication with local communities. This approach ensures that grievances are addressed before they escalate.
The chief minister said coordination and transparency will guide project implementation.
Community response and expectations
Community representatives welcomed the chief minister’s assurance, saying safety guarantees remain essential for participation in development activities. Many expressed hope that the assurance would translate into visible action on the ground.
Residents said uninterrupted and safe travel would encourage cooperation and reduce anxiety. They also urged authorities to maintain consistent security presence rather than symbolic gestures.
The safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community, they said, must continue throughout the project period.
Political and social context
The assurance comes amid a sensitive political and social context in Manipur, where movement and security issues have generated concern. Observers said the chief minister’s statement reflects an effort to stabilise the situation while advancing development.
Political analysts noted that infrastructure projects often become flashpoints if community concerns remain unaddressed. Therefore, explicit assurances help lower tensions.
The NH-137A project thus carries both developmental and symbolic significance.
Development without discrimination
CM Singh stressed that development initiatives will not discriminate between communities. He said the government’s responsibility extends equally to all citizens, regardless of ethnicity or region.
The safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community, he said, forms part of this principle of equal protection. Infrastructure must serve as a tool for inclusion, not exclusion.
He urged all stakeholders to support development efforts peacefully.
Monitoring and grievance redressal
To ensure that assurances remain effective, the government plans to establish monitoring mechanisms and grievance redressal channels. Residents can report concerns related to safety or movement.
Officials said timely resolution of complaints will help maintain trust and prevent misunderstandings. Continuous feedback will guide administrative action.
The chief minister said accountability remains key to successful implementation.
Long-term impact of NH-137A
Beyond immediate connectivity benefits, the NH-137A road project is expected to contribute to long-term regional development. Improved transport can attract investment, tourism, and public services.
For hill communities, including the Kuki-Zo, better roads can transform access to opportunities. Therefore, ensuring safety during construction remains an investment in future stability.
The chief minister said the project aligns with the state’s broader development vision.
What lies ahead
As construction begins, attention will remain on ground-level implementation of security assurances. Authorities said they will review arrangements regularly and adjust as needed.
The government also plans continued dialogue with community leaders to maintain confidence. Such engagement, officials said, remains essential for peaceful development.
The safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community will be tested through consistent action in the coming months.
Conclusion
Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh’s assurance of safe travel for the Kuki-Zo community during the NH-137A road project flag-off marks an important step toward inclusive and sensitive development. By acknowledging security concerns and committing to protection, the government aims to balance infrastructure growth with social stability.
As the project moves forward, the effectiveness of the safe travel assurance for Kuki-Zo community will depend on sustained security, transparent administration, and continued dialogue. If upheld, the NH-137A project could become not only a symbol of connectivity but also of trust and inclusive progress in Manipur.
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