Imphal, May 30: Hundreds of truck drivers in Manipur on Saturday suspended transportation services along National Highway-37 (Imphal–Jiribam Road) in protest against the killing of a truck driver in an armed ambush and to demand enhanced security on the state’s highways.
The protest followed the death of a truck driver from West Bengal, who was killed during an attack at TM Kasom along the Imphal–Ukhrul Road on May 29.
As part of the agitation, around 400 vehicles, including LPG bullet tankers, oil tankers and goods carriers, remained stranded at Keithelmanbi. Drivers gathered to express solidarity with the deceased and voiced concerns over the safety of transport operators travelling through conflict-prone areas of the state.
The protesters demanded stronger security arrangements for commercial vehicles and transport workers operating on Manipur’s highways. They also called for the complete reopening of National Highway-102 (Imphal–Dimapur Road), a crucial supply route connecting the state with neighbouring regions.
Representatives of the drivers stated that transportation services would remain suspended until adequate security measures are put in place and normal movement along NH-102 is restored.
The suspension has raised concerns over possible disruptions in the supply of essential commodities, fuel and other goods into the state if the protest continues for an extended period.
Authorities have not yet announced any immediate measures in response to the demands, while security agencies continue to monitor the situation.
