IMPHAL, May 12 : The state cabinet meet convened this morning at the chief minister’s bungalow seriously discussed acute shortage of essential items due to indefinite economic blockade called by Naga civil society bodies along the national highways in protest against holding of ADC elections.
Speaking to mediaperson after the cabinet meet, spokesperson of the SPF government N Biren said state government has taken up stringent measures to transport goods into the state through the national highway - 53.
Essential commodities meant for the state would now be ferrying from Silchar in Assam and brought to the state through the NH-53, Biren said adding due to weak bridges and road conditions along the Imphal-Jiribam route trucks will be restricted to load maximum of 10 tons.
He also said that adequate security escorts will be provided to trucks along the NH-53.
Regarding disturbances being given by some section of the Naga communities along the NH-53 at None area, the SPF spokesperson said instructions had been made to concerned DC to negotiate with the agitators to clear the road.
Regarding the current petroleum stock available for the state, Biren disclosed that petrol has stock to last for seven to 10 days while life saving drugs for 15 to 20 days.
Stating that there is report about Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio condemning Manipur government’s cabinet decision to ban entry of NSCN(IM) general secretary Th Muivah into Manipur, Biren said Nagaland chief minister has no right to condemn the decision as the matter was entirely internal affairs of Manipur.
The SPF spokesperson also said Manipur government could have taken up alternative measures had the proposed visit of Th Muivah was truly a homecoming.