Ukhrul: Ongoing tensions at Litan Sareikhong in Ukhrul district have severely disrupted vehicular movement along the Imphal–Ukhrul road for nearly a week, affecting both private and public transportation.
The unrest reportedly began on February 7 following the alleged assault of a Tangkhul man by a group of Kuki individuals during a confrontation. The incident escalated into episodes of gunfire and arson, leaving more than 70 houses and structures gutted. Over 100 families from both the Tangkhul and Kuki communities have been displaced and are currently taking shelter in neighbouring villages and with relatives.
Due to prevailing security concerns, most vehicles have suspended operations along the Imphal–Ukhrul road, causing significant inconvenience to residents of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts. The disruption has triggered a sharp rise in demand for helicopter services between Ukhrul and Imphal.
Officials at Imphal Airport said that despite the increased demand for helicopter services over the past few days, operational constraints have made it difficult to meet public needs. Flights are limited by restricted flying hours, daytime-only operations, weather conditions, and pilot availability. With a limited number of pilots, each can undertake only up to three sorties per day.
Currently, Global Vectra Helicorp, operating under the state transport department, is the only service provider offering helicopter connectivity in Manipur. The helicopter has a seating capacity of 10 passengers.
Meanwhile, police sources said that some private vehicles—primarily those carrying people attending the Lui-Ngai-Ni celebration at the Ukhrul district headquarters—have resumed movement along the national highway following the deployment of heavy security personnel along the Mahadev–Litan stretch on Saturday.
Apart from reports of blank firing, no fresh incidents of arson were reported in Litan on Saturday, police added.
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