Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: A prolonged economic blockade enforced by tribal organizations on key National Highways has severely disrupted the supply of essential commodities to Manipur‘s Kangpokpi district over the past several days, according to reports on Monday.
While the official price of a standard 14.2 kg LPG cylinder ranges between Rs. 1,064 and Rs. 1,093, and petrol is priced at Rs. 107.19 per litre, shortages triggered by panic buying and hoarding have reportedly pushed black-market rates to alarming levels, with petrol selling for as much as Rs. 230 per litre and LPG cylinders fetching up to Rs. 5,000.
The disruption follows protests and road blockades, particularly along NH-02, organized by Naga groups demanding justice for the recent killing of six abducted Naga individuals. The restrictions have significantly curtailed the movement of fuel tankers and trucks carrying food and other essential supplies to the hill districts. The lack of replenishment has forced many residents to resort to using firewood for cooking.
The supply crisis has heightened concerns among residents, sparking fears of rationing and further shortages. Although both the Centre and state authorities have repeatedly maintained that adequate reserves of essential commodities are available, the transportation of supplies into Kuki-majority areas such as Kangpokpi continues to face obstacles due to the ongoing blockades and prevailing tensions.
Meanwhile, the Manipur Department of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has cautioned against the circulation of misinformation regarding an alleged or impending shortage of LPG and petroleum products in the state.
The department stated that certain social media users and propagandists are spreading misleading claims, creating unnecessary panic and confusion among consumers and the public.