The 48-hour-long shutdown enforced along the Yairipok–Nongpok Keithelmanbi route came to an end following a crucial understanding reached between the agitating public and Andro Assembly Constituency MLA, Thounaojam Shyamkumar. The shutdown, spearheaded by the Yairipok to Nongpok Keithelmanbi Road Development Organisation in collaboration with local Meira Paibi groups, was called to draw attention to the long-neglected and deteriorating condition of the vital inter-village road, which has been left in a dilapidated state for years despite repeated appeals to the authorities.
The protest, which saw strong participation from local residents, civil society members, and Meira Paibis, highlighted the region’s growing frustration over the delay in addressing what they called a basic infrastructural necessity. Protesters lamented the hardships faced by villagers, commuters, students, and emergency service providers due to the unusable condition of the road. The road, which connects several villages and facilitates access to markets, healthcare, and educational institutions, has reportedly remained unattended despite multiple proposals and demands over the years.
Following a meeting held between MLA Th. Shyamkumar and representatives of the protestors, including leaders of the Road Development Organisation and Meira Paibi members, a consensus was reached that led to the withdrawal of the shutdown. The MLA gave his personal assurance that demarcation work for the road would begin by April 15, with active support from the local public. He further committed that the blacktopping process would commence from April 20, for which he would procure the necessary funds from his personal financial resources, pending official government action.
MLA Shyamkumar also clarified that although the road’s upgradation is officially slated to be executed under the PMGSY, progress has been stalled due to procedural ambiguities and bureaucratic delays. He noted that the issue had even been raised on the floor of the state legislative assembly in an earlier session, yet no tangible development had followed.
The MLA acknowledged the legitimacy of the public’s grievances and assured them that he was committed to resolving the matter, even if it meant intervening through personal means until formal government support is made available. Local leaders welcomed the assurance but also reminded the authorities that the region had long suffered from broken promises and unfulfilled development pledges. They expressed cautious optimism and stated that while the shutdown had been called off, public vigilance would continue to ensure that the promised timelines are met and that the quality of the roadwork is not compromised.
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