The National Green Tribunal’s Eastern Zone Bench in Kolkata has instructed the suspension of road construction in Manipur’s hilly and forested regions for environmental and geological assessments. This directive, given during a physical hearing, mandates a stop to all construction activities related to the project. The order was issued in response to an application filed by Khuraijam Athouba Singh, Convener of the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI).
The NGT has formed a high-level expert committee to oversee the project site and ensure compliance with regulations. The road project, known as the ‘Ring Road,’ covers districts like Churachandpur, Kangpokpi, Noney, and Ukhrul. Allegedly, the construction is proceeding without necessary clearances such as forest approval and environmental impact assessments. The next hearing on this matter is scheduled for February 2, 2026.
COCOMI’s Convener Singh highlighted that the road, also called the “German Road” in some sections, gained attention during the Manipur ethnic crisis. Concerns have been raised about the road’s construction process lacking transparency and legal approvals. COCOMI emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations surrounding the road’s construction and usage during the period of administrative breakdown.
