NH-37 Project Under Fire: TDC Demands Central Probe Into NHIDCL Over Alleged Poor Construction and Delays

By Thetripurapost Desk, Imphal
Jul 03, 2026
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The Transporters' and Drivers' Council (TDC) has urged the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to order an immediate investigation into the execution of the National Highway-37 (NH-37) project by the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL). The organisation has alleged poor construction quality, prolonged delays and inadequate supervision, claiming the project has failed to deliver despite substantial public investment.

Imphal-Jiribam Highway Faces Severe Deterioration

In a memorandum submitted to the Secretary of MoRTH, the TDC expressed deep concern over the worsening condition of the Imphal-Jiribam Highway. According to the council, several stretches of NH-37 have become nearly impassable, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season, causing serious inconvenience to commuters and commercial transport operators.

The organisation stated that the deteriorating road conditions have disrupted the smooth movement of goods and passengers, affecting one of Manipur's most vital transport corridors.

Transporters Allege Heavy Financial Losses

The council claimed that despite years of construction work and the release of significant government funds, large sections of the highway remain in poor condition.

According to the memorandum, transport operators are facing frequent vehicle breakdowns, rising maintenance expenses, longer travel times, higher fuel consumption, road accidents and substantial financial losses due to the deteriorating infrastructure.

Landslides and Safety Risks Raise Fresh Concerns

The TDC further alleged that inadequate monitoring of construction activities has contributed to repeated landslides during the rainy season.

It claimed that both loaded and empty vehicles are often stranded for hours or even days at vulnerable locations, exposing drivers and transport workers to safety risks while also creating law-and-order concerns in isolated stretches of the highway.

NHIDCL Accused of Poor Oversight

The transport body also alleged that NHIDCL subcontracted major portions of the project to multiple contractors without ensuring proper supervision.

According to the council, the absence of effective monitoring has resulted in poor workmanship, project delays and a lack of accountability among contractors responsible for executing the highway work.

Demand for Independent Inquiry and Financial Audit

Questioning the utilisation of public funds, the TDC argued that the limited visible progress despite heavy government expenditure warrants a comprehensive investigation.

The organisation has called on the Union government to establish an independent high-level committee to conduct a time-bound inquiry. It has also demanded detailed technical inspections and financial audits of all work completed under the NH-37 project.

Transparency in Project Details Sought

The council has further requested that the Centre make public the project's Detailed Project Report (DPR), fund release status, expenditure details and physical progress reports.

According to the TDC, greater transparency will help ensure accountability and restore public confidence in the highway development project.

NH-37 Described as Manipur's Second Lifeline

Describing NH-37 as Manipur's second lifeline after NH-2, the organisation said the highway plays a crucial role in maintaining connectivity between the state and the rest of the country.

It warned that the deteriorating road has severely affected transportation by causing traffic disruptions, vehicle damage, accidents, financial losses and even incidents of looting involving stranded vehicles.

Ministry Asked to Repair Highway Immediately

The TDC has urged the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to direct NHIDCL to immediately restore the worst-affected stretches of NH-37 on a priority basis.

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It also stressed that all ongoing construction activities should be carried out under strict quality control to prevent further deterioration and ensure long-term durability of the highway.

Protest Warning if Demands Are Ignored

Warning of future agitation, the council said it would launch democratic protests if the Centre failed to address its concerns within a reasonable timeframe.

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As of the time of filing this report, NHIDCL has not issued any official response to the allegations raised by the Transporters' and Drivers' Council.

Why This Matters

The Imphal-Jiribam NH-37 is one of Manipur's most strategic highways, serving as a critical alternative route for passenger travel, cargo movement and essential supplies. Any prolonged disruption on this corridor has a direct impact on the state's economy, logistics network and public connectivity, making the outcome of the TDC's demands significant for both transporters and the wider public.

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