Imphal:
The 68-day economic blockade on National Highways of Manipur may have been lifted but the situation on ground has not changed. Many people are still seen waiting in queues for essential items like petrol.
They are desperate to receive relief.
"Even after the lifting of the blockade I think the deadlock will continue because this is politics," said W B Singh, a resident on Imphal.
Despite the lifting of the blockade and deployment of paramilitary forces, vehicles have been refusing to drive on the National Highway-39 which passes through Nagaland.
The truckers are taking this opportunity to press for their demand - they will no more pay up extortion to the various groups demanding money from them. Extortion from vehicles on NH-39 is allegedly the underground outfit NSCN (IM)'s primary source of revenue.
"Security persons of Nagaland and underground organisations impose huge tax on transporters. They collect goods and godown tax," said N Haridas Singh, general secretary, Transporters and Drivers Council Manipur.
Even passenger buses have decided not to take the NH-39. Each bus is forced to pay Rs 10,000 annually besides the amount levied on each trip they undertake.
"There is harassment to our drivers, handlemen and even passengers. Yes we are not going on to NH-39," said Athanthem Budha Luwang, President, All Manipur Inter State Bus Association.
Even the Manipur government is backing up the truck drivers. The only other option is NH-53 which passes through Assam but the condition of the highway is deplorable. Meanwhile, the people are still waiting for essential commodities.