Imphal, March 15: Hundreds of protesters staged a demonstration at the old Koirengei Airfield in Imphal East on Sunday, demanding the preservation and protection of the historic airfield amid ongoing development activities in the area.
The protest was organised by the Campaign for Protection and Preservation of Koirengei Airfield (CPPKAF), with participants expressing concern over construction work reportedly being carried out at the site.
Speaking to the media, Shanta Nahakpa, Convenor of CPPKAF, stated that citizens from across the state had gathered in front of the temporary station at the old Koirengei Airfield to protest and highlight the historical importance of the site. He said the airfield is one of the most significant war memorial locations in India, noting that during the Second World War various Allied forces and regiments had landed at the airfield.
He further explained that the site had served as an important station during the war when many armed forces personnel were stationed and evacuated from the airfield during the Japanese occupation and subsequent battles in the region.
Expressing concern over the ongoing construction at the site, Nahakpa said the campaign has already submitted representations to both the Manipur government and the Government of India, urging them to immediately halt any construction activities taking place at the Koirengei Airfield.
He added that the organisation has also written to the Ex-Servicemen Association seeking support to help preserve and regain protection of the historic airfield, emphasising that safeguarding the Koirengei Airfield is essential to preserving the history of the Indian armed forces.
