The National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) has set a target for December 2026 to complete upgrades on National Highway-37,a crucial route for Manipur. This highway has gained strategic significance following the ethnic conflicts that erupted in May 2023,which severely restricted access to the more preferred National Highway-2 .
Historically, residents of Manipur favored NH-2 for travel and goods transport,as it connects the capital,Imphal, to rest of India via Nagaland. However,during times of unrest,NH-37 becomes the only viable alternative,despite its challenging conditions. Landslides frequently render NH-37 nearly impassable during rainy season, yet it has proven to be a safer option compared to NH-2 during periods of conflict.
The ongoing ethnic tensions, particularly between the Kuki and Meitei communities,have led to blockades along NH-2,making NH-37 essential for maintaining connectivity . The NHIDCL's ambitious project aims to repair six critical segments of NH-37,covering a total of 39 kilometers. These segments include Keiphundai, Shantikhunou, Barak,Nungba,Rengpang,and Irang.
As part of a broader initiative to enhance infrastructure,the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways allocated ₹1,300 crore in 2022 for the widening and upgrading of the highway. This project will transform the 224-kilometer stretch into all-weather road,which is vital for India's Act East policy aimed at improving connectivity with Southeast Asia.
So far,the central government has disbursed ₹1,040 crore, approximately 80% of the project's total cost. NHIDCL officials report that significant progress has been made,with packages I and III already completed and the remaining five packages nearing completion at 85-90%.
Travelers on NH-37 have noted a reduction in travel time between Imphal and Jiribam, now taking only 4-5 hours compared to the previous 7-8 hours. However,they continue to face persistent issues such as potholes,waterlogging,and landslides during the monsoon season .
Challenges to the project have been manifold. NHIDCL deputy general manager Rafique Ahmad Choudhury cited extensive surveys, land disputes, and natural calamities as significant hurdles. One major complication arose when 488 households in the package II stretch sought compensation for land located within a protected forest. Initially deemed ineligible for compensation under existing regulations,the Manipur government intervened,approving an ex gratia payment of ₹70,000 per household on humanitarian grounds.
Despite these efforts, the project has faced delays. The closure of NH-2 due to ongoing ethnic conflict has led to a surge in traffic on NH-37,exacerbating wear and tear on sections currently under construction. This increase in usage has further complicated the timeline for completion.
Local transport unions have expressed dissatisfaction with the NHIDCL's pace and quality of work. The All-Manipur Road Transport Drivers and Motor Workers’ Union has attributed repeated landslides to steep vertical cuts made during the road widening process and inadequate drainage systems . However,NHIDCL officials have denied these claims,asserting that construction quality has not been compromised.
As the situation in Manipur remains tense,the completion of NH-37 is not just a matter of infrastructure; it represents critical lifeline for the state. The anticipated upgrades aim to provide a more reliable route for residents and travelers alike, potentially easing some of humanitarian challenges currently faced in the region.
