Normalcy returning to blockade affected Manipur

Imphal, Aug.19 (ANI): The resumption of the supply of essential commodities has come as a major relief for people of Manipur, who were facing hardships following the economic blockade imposed by Naga Groups on National Highway-39.

The deserted markets, which were facing severe shortage of essential goods, are now bustling.

Despite the ongoing economic blockade and a landslide on NH-39 near Mao, supplies are reaching Imphal through rail and road."The efforts by the Central Government to end the crisis are commendable. They have provided security escort to goods-laden trucks and people appreciate it. But, a lot more needs to be done to bring life to normal," said Ranjit Singh, a local resident.

There are long queues but petrol is now available. The price of petrol has now come down from Rs.150 to 60 per litre.

LPG is available at Rs. 1,700 per cylinder.

"Price of petroleum products have come down. Earlier, the price ranged from Rs. 150-170, but nowadays, it has come down to Rs. 60 per litre," said Benjami Singh, another resident.

Manipur is dependent on supply of various goods through other States and it has been facing the crisis since April when the Naga groups imposed an economic blockade on NH-39, the lifeline of Manipur.

The government has made several attempts to resolve the issue through dialogue, but failed.

Recently, a state and central government team visited Senapati district headquarters to hold talks with the Naga groups, but they didn't turn up.

Now, the people want an end to shutdowns, strikes and blockades in the state.

"The blockade has been going on for a long time and it is causing problems and has adversely affected the common people," said Anjali Devi, a student.

The ongoing 20-day blockade on NH-39 will end on August 23. (ANI)