Steel bridge linking Churachandpur and Chandel was built without government or environmental clearances, prompting concerns over governance and possible cross-border activities
Imphal: An unauthorised steel bridge reportedly worth around Rs 3 crore has been inaugurated in Manipur’s remote hill region, raising concerns over security, governance and regulatory oversight due to its location near sensitive border areas.
The bridge, spanning the Manipur River, connects Walkhu village in Chandel district with Singheu village in Churachandpur district. It was inaugurated on Friday at Salkhul village, where a signboard welcomes visitors to “Khulmi Lei”.
According to reports, the project was funded and executed entirely by local residents from the Kuki-Zo and Hmar communities without obtaining approval from the Manipur Government or environmental authorities. Construction materials and other essential supplies were reportedly transported from neighbouring Myanmar and Mizoram.
Local residents have described the bridge as a vital infrastructure project that will improve transportation, connectivity and access between remote villages in Churachandpur and Chandel districts.
However, the project has drawn the attention of state and intelligence agencies over the absence of official clearances and government supervision. Officials have expressed concern that the unregulated crossing, located in a sensitive region, could potentially facilitate unauthorised cross-border movement and trafficking.
Despite the concerns, authorities have not initiated any regulatory action or issued directions to stop the project. The bridge has already become operational following its inauguration.
The development has once again highlighted the challenges of governance and infrastructure development in Manipur’s remote border areas, where local communities often undertake projects independently while authorities balance developmental needs with security and regulatory considerations.
