Ukhrul: In a heartfelt display of solidarity, the Hao Riders from Ukhrul district accompanied the children of one of their fellow riders to school on their first day back after the tragic death of their mother.
The children — Kezia, Shekinah and Shonrei, all students of Goodwill School in Ukhrul district headquarters — lost their mother in a road accident on August 26 while travelling from Imphal to Ukhrul via the Nongdam-Shingkap route.
Her death left the family devastated, with Tuesday marking the children’s first day back at school without their mother.
Recognising the significance of the moment, fellow riders accompanied the children to school, offering emotional support and reassurance as they returned to their routine amid their grief.
The school community also welcomed the children warmly, with teachers and classmates offering support and helping them feel a sense of belonging during the difficult period.
Anem Vashi, the children’s father and a fellow rider, thanked the riding community and the school for standing by his children and ensuring they did not feel alone as they returned to school following their mother’s death.
The children’s journey to school also highlights the challenges faced by residents of Ukhrul and Kamjong districts amid the ongoing tension in Manipur.
With the Imphal-Ukhrul road, or National Highway 202, considered unsafe for regular travel, people are often forced to take the longer route through Nongdam-Shingkap.
The poor condition of the alternative route, particularly during the monsoon, adds to the risks faced by commuters travelling between the districts.
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