Imphal Ring Road project to transform transport dynamics in Manipur; introduce women-operated e-vehicles
Imphal Ring Road project is gearing up to introduce a fleet of women-operated e-buses and e-rickshaws.
Spearheaded by Yumnam Joykumar Singh, Project Director cum Chief Engineer of Externally Added Projects (EAP) at the Public Works Department (PWD) in Manipur, this initiative aims to tackle the persistent traffic congestion plaguing Imphal City.
With construction set to commence next month and completion targeted within 28 months, the project is poised to transform transportation dynamics in the state.
Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to the tune of Rs. 1760 crore, the project is a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. It seeks to deploy 20 e-buses and 52 e-rickshaws, operated exclusively by women.
This paradigm shift in transportation will not only address traffic congestion but also empower women by providing employment opportunities and fostering gender equality. The vehicles are to be operated under a Public Private Partnership (PPP) model, with an emphasis on prioritizing women-headed households in the project-affected areas.
To ensure seamless operations, rigorous training programs will be provided to the selected women operators, equipping them with the necessary skills to navigate the urban landscape.
The Imphal Ring Road project encompasses a length of 51.23 km, strategically covering portions of the Imphal East and Imphal West districts. As construction gears up, compensation disbursement for affected landowners and structures is well underway.
A substantial amount of Rs. 110 crore has
