Ukhrul, June 26: Aimed at transforming connectivity in Manipur’s hill and valley districts, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has approved the construction of a new four-lane highway from Imphal to Yaingangpokpi, a key step in the proposed Imphal–Ukhrul four-lane corridor.
Ram Muivah, MLA of 44 Ukhrul assembly constituency told this correspondent that the four-lane highways from Imphal to Yaingangpokpi, are mostly brown fields. “The proposed four-lane will not disturb or replace the existing NH 202,” the Ukhrul MLA said.
The newly approved alignment reportedly will shorten the existing Imphal–Ukhrul route by approximately 10 kilometers via Lamlang Gate.
Phase 1: The approved section from Imphal to Yaingangpokpi will be developed on relatively flat terrain, making it cost-effective and quicker to implement. Tenders have already been floated by NHIDCL, as per sources.
Phase 2: The proposed extension from Yaingangpokpi to Ukhrul, via Lamlang Gate and the Thoubal River Valley, will involve the construction of approximately 500-meter long tunnel under Mahadev Hills.
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“I’m trying to get approval of MoRTH for the remaining stretch Yaingangpokpi to Ukhrul sector for lane via Lamlang Gate. The proposed four-lane will have one tunnel below the Mahadev hills, so that right up to Tolloi junction, the highway will be on flat terrain,” Ram Muivah added.
The existing Imphal–Ukhrul National Highway-202 is heavily congested, with traffic expected to triple in the coming decades.
Moreover, the project is expected to open up remote villages including Lamlang, Litan, Shokvao, Sirarakhong, and Somdal to greater economic activity and public services. With its scenic terrain and relatively stable geology, the new route also offers tourism potential.
Ram Muivah further said, “This phase 2 will be almost an entirely green field because the proposed four-lane highway will pass through the Thoubal River Valley.”
With its strategic and economic implications, the Imphal–Ukhrul four-lane highway could be seen as a game-changer for Ukhrul and Kamjong districts.
The initiative, spearheaded by Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah (IAS Retd.), marks a major milestone in efforts to enhance infrastructure, boost tourism, and stimulate economic growth in the region.