In a move aimed at enhancing road safety and alleviating traffic congestion, the Hungpung Village Administrative Council (HVAC) commenced a major encroachment clearance drive along the National Highway-202 (Ukhrul–Imphal route) on Tuesday.
The operation targets the entire stretch of the national highway within the jurisdiction of Hungpung village. The Council is deploying a JCB excavator to remove physical barriers, structures, and goods that have long bothered the flow of traffic on the arterial road.
Briefing the media at the site, HVAC Chairman Akui YR explained that the council was left with no choice but to intervene directly after a public appeal went ignored.
“We had earlier appealed to the occupants to voluntarily remove structures and goods obstructing public spaces, but we received no response,” Akui stated, adding the Council has now decided to take action to restore free traffic flow and ensure the safety of all commuters who have been frustrated by the congestion for months.
The operation is being overseen by key Council leadership, including HVAC Secretary Mungrei Mahung, alongside other officials supervising the removal of encroachments.
It may be recalled that on April 28, the HVAC issued a formal public notice instructing residents and business owners within the village’s jurisdiction to clear any structures, business materials, or private goods encroaching on roadside areas, pedestrian pavements, and drainage systems. The notice provided a 45-day window for voluntary compliance, which expired prior to the Council’s decision to take action by mobilising machinery.
According to the HVAC, the cleanup drive is a necessary measure for the development and well-being of the society. The Council reiterated that the initiative is being carried out strictly in the public interest and appealed to the local community for continued cooperation as they work to improve the road infrastructure safety.
