Manipur: Imphal West administration launches eviction drive to clear encroachments along Keisampat-Malom road

An extensive eviction drive was conducted today along the Keisampat to Malom road stretch in Imphal West to remove illegal structures obstructing public roads and posing safety hazards. The operation was carried out early this morning by the district administration in coordination with various line departments, following orders issued on July 4 by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Imphal West.

District Commissioner M. Rajkumar stated that the eviction was necessary due to widespread encroachment in the form of house extensions, makeshift shops, permanent and temporary sheds, and the accumulation of construction materials and debris along key roads. “The illegal structures have severely hindered traffic flow and created safety concerns for commuters,” he noted.

The DC further informed that prior notifications had been issued in both 2022 and 2024, warning encroachers to vacate such unauthorized setups. An earlier eviction initiative launched in early 2025 had to be paused due to severe flooding in the region. Despite repeated advisories, many individuals failed to comply with the latest directive to voluntarily remove encroachments by the July 11 deadline.

Under Order No. DC(IW)/8/6/Eviction/2025, the district administration invoked powers under Section 3 of the Manipur Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1978. The order mandated the removal of all unauthorized constructions and road obstructions—ranging from debris and sand to full-scale structures—by 3:00 PM on July 11.

The administration emphasized that non-compliance would invite strict penal action, including demolition, police intervention, and recovery of removal costs from the violators.

District Commissioner Rajkumar added that similar eviction drives will be carried out in other parts of Imphal West to restore public access and ensure road safety. He urged the public to extend full cooperation to the authorities and voluntarily remove encroachments in the interest of civic order.