Imphal | Nearly 1,000 trucks and oil tankers carrying essential commodities to Manipur remained stranded between Jiribam and Jirighat in Assam’s Cachar district after the absence of adequate security convoys brought traffic movement to a standstill along National Highway-37 (NH-37), officials said on Monday.

The disruption, which began on July 26, triggered a massive traffic backlog on the highway, severely affecting the movement of smaller vehicles and delaying the supply of essential goods to Imphal.

NH-37, the state’s crucial alternative supply corridor, has been witnessing mounting pressure as the number of vehicles awaiting escorted passage into Manipur continues to rise. Officials said the existing security deployment is struggling to cope with the growing demand despite efforts to expand convoy sizes.

Authorities have increased the number of vehicles in each convoy from around 100 to nearly 150. However, transporters say the available security arrangements remain insufficient. At present, eight companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed to provide security escorts for vehicles travelling along the vulnerable highway.

The logistical challenge has been compounded by the deteriorating condition of NH-37, where damaged stretches have significantly slowed traffic movement. A journey of just 222 kilometres between Imphal and Jiribam now takes empty trucks two to three days, while loaded vehicles transporting supplies to the state capital require between three and five days to complete the route.

Transport operators also report prolonged waiting periods before being allowed to join a security convoy. Trucks often remain stranded for five to ten days, with fuel tankers and LPG carriers receiving priority clearance because of their importance in maintaining essential supplies.

The prolonged delays have disrupted supply chains and increased operational costs for transporters while adding to the difficulties faced by drivers navigating the challenging route. Transporters’ and Drivers’ Council (TDC) president Hijam Ranjit said recurring traffic disruptions have become a major concern for both transport workers and security personnel deployed along the highway.

He urged the authorities to strengthen convoy security by increasing the number of escort teams and to undertake immediate repairs on the damaged sections of NH-37 to restore the smooth movement of essential goods.

NH-37 has become increasingly critical for Manipur’s supply network, particularly during periods of disruption on other transport corridors. Transporters warn that unless convoy capacity is expanded and road conditions improve, delays in the movement of essential commodities into the state are likely to persist.