Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Ajay Tamta, announced that the Imphal–Jiribam Highway (NH-37) — considered the lifeline of Manipur — will be fully completed by the Financial Year 2025–26, with 152 km already upgraded and blacktopped. He made the announcement while addressing a press briefing at Hotel Classic Grande, Imphal, highlighting the Centre’s commitment to enhancing road connectivity across Manipur.
Tamta informed that the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is presently working on 11 National Highways spanning 1,774 km, implemented through NHIDCL and the State PWD, Manipur. Of these, 747 km have already been upgraded to improved standards, while the remaining 332 km will be completed by FY 2026–27.
A total of 51 project packages are underway, involving an expenditure of ₹12,000 crore over the past five years. The Minister noted that although land acquisition and forest clearance issues had delayed 35 packages, NHIDCL has renewed its focus to ensure timely completion.
He added that major highway corridors — Imphal to Jiribam (NH-37), Yaingangpokpi to Finch Corner (NH-202), Tamenglong to Mahur (NH-137), Churachandpur to Tuivai (NH-102B), and Maram to Peren (NH-129A) — are targeted for completion by FY 2025–26.
NHIDCL is also preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for new routes including Churachandpur to Tipaimukh (NH-02, 262 km) and a Greenfield alignment from Mao to Senapati (NH-02, 57.91 km). Additionally, a 658 km Indo–Myanmar Border Road Project is under feasibility assessment and will soon be declared a new National Highway.
Tamta emphasized that these initiatives reflect the Government’s steadfast commitment to improving road infrastructure and regional connectivity, driving economic growth and accessibility across Manipur and the Northeast.
Earlier in the day, the Minister visited Pherzawl District to review the progress of Central and State projects. He inspected the Community Health Centre (CHC) at Parbung and chaired a review meeting at the Pherzawl District Headquarters, focusing on the implementation of PMGSY, PM-FME, and other development schemes. Detailed discussions were held on future action plans and priority areas for the district’s holistic growth.
