Manipur: Biker falls into unbarricaded construction pit on NH-2, locals accuse NHIDCL of alleged negligence

A tragic accident on National Highway-2 late Saturday, October 25 evening has left a young man dead, sparking anger among local residents and commuters who blame alleged negligence by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL).

The deceased, Paogoumang Kipgen, a resident of Haipi village, reportedly fell into a deep pit left unbarricaded by NHIDCL workers near Keithelmanbi Military Colony around 6:00 p.m. while riding his motorcycle from the Kangpokpi side. The pit, dug as part of ongoing road-widening works, had no warning signs, reflectors, or barricades, rendering it nearly invisible in the dark.

Kangpokpi Police recovered the body and transported it to the District Hospital, where he was declared brought dead.

This incident is reportedly not isolated. Residents recalled multiple near-fatal accidents along the same stretch, particularly around Keithelmanbi and Kalapahar areas. Previously, three members of the Eimi Riders fell into similar pits but survived with minor injuries. Other civilians from Keithelmanbi and Kholjang have suffered vehicle damage and near-fatal mishaps due to the lack of basic safety measures.

In a separate incident early Sunday morning, a Tata truck loaded with bricks also fell into another pit near the same location.

Commuters and locals accused NHIDCL of utter negligence, alleging that the agency has failed to install functional safety reflectors, caution signs, or barricades at hazardous points despite repeated complaints. Residents also criticized the agency for not carrying out regular water sprinkling, leaving thick clouds of dust along the highway that make travel unbearable.

A local commuter said, “If NHIDCL had taken minimal responsibility and installed proper safety signage, this precious young life could have been saved. This was a preventable tragedy caused by negligence.”

As of this report, the body of Paogoumang Kipgen remains unclaimed at the District Hospital, Kangpokpi, while NHIDCL officials and Haipi Village Authority representatives reportedly held discussions to address the issue.

Residents have demanded immediate accountability from the construction agency and warned that continued inaction could result in further preventable deaths along the busy national highway.