Manipur: Shangshak-Tengnoupal to get 2-lane highway after five decades, villagers demand quality assurance

After a prolonged wait of five decades, the long-anticipated Shangshak-Tengnoupal road construction project is finally set to commence. The villagers have welcomed the initiative by both the central and state governments, but have also issued a firm warning against any compromise on the project's quality.

In response to the government’s approval for the widening of the Shangshak-Tengnoupal section of National Highway 102A into a two-lane road with a hard shoulder, representatives from 25 villages along the route convened a joint meeting. As a result, the United Senior Citizens Forum (USCF) of 43 Phungyar AC was formed to oversee and advocate for the project's integrity.

During the meeting, village chiefs and secretaries from Phaleng, Leishi, Koso, Shangshak, Tangkhul Hundung, Sorde, Phungyar, Leiting, Meileng, Sohko, Alang, Khambi, Shoratheng, Parbung, Sorbung, Lehonglo, and Monthou, among others, participated in discussions regarding the implementation and monitoring of the project.

Speaking to the media, USCF Secretary David Zimik emphasized the significance of the NH 102A project, stating that its completion would boost connectivity, facilitate economic development, and enhance the quality of life in Kamjong district and the broader state of Manipur. However, he expressed concern over potential compromises in construction quality, urging that contracting companies refrain from quoting prices below the project's tender cost, which could lead to substandard execution.

Zimik stressed that tendering below the project’s sanctioned cost often results in poor-quality infrastructure, citing previous instances in Manipur where projects awarded at 20-30% below estimated costs led to delays and deterioration. He specifically referenced the Yaingangpokpi-Finch Corner road, Imphal-Jiribam highway, and Tadubi-Tolloi road projects, all implemented by NHIDCL, which remain incomplete to date.

To prevent a similar fate for the Shangshak-Tengnoupal project, the 25 villages have collectively resolved to reject any contractor bidding below the sanctioned cost. The resolution has been formally forwarded to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, MoRTH Secretary, Governor of Manipur, Chief Secretary, NHIDCL Managing Director, and the PWD Chief Engineer.

The villagers have issued a stern warning that any failure to uphold quality standards will result in the project being permanently banned by local communities along NH 102A.