Manipur to resume MST bus services on key routes after years of suspension

Imphal: The Manipur government on Monday announced that Manipur State Transport (MST) bus services will be restarted on key routes as an initiative to restore normalcy and ease public inconvenience after prolonged suspensions due to ethnic clashes.

The government said efforts are underway to ensure security and gradually expand connectivity.

Anurag Bajpai, IFS, PCCF & HoFF, Chief Wildlife Warden and Additional Chief Secretary (Transport/TCI), Government of Manipur, stated this on the inaugural day of the three-day Refresher Course for Manipur State Transport drivers and conductors held in Imphal East on Monday.

Although the Additional Chief Secretary did not elaborate on the issue, he said MST buses are being prepared to restart routes after several years and that a refresher course has become necessary as systems, technology, and public expectations have evolved.

He stated that the course has been designed to make MST services more people-friendly, efficient, and responsible. With evolving traffic patterns and the introduction of technologies such as GPS-based fleet monitoring, automated ticketing, and electric buses, he said it is essential for staff to stay updated and confident in their duties. He emphasised that safety remains the foremost priority and that the training aims to strengthen safe driving habits, defensive driving, and effective emergency response. He also highlighted the important role of conductors in managing passengers, maintaining order, and shaping the overall travel experience.

The first day of the programme included technical sessions on “Traffic Regulations, Signs and Penalties” by Hemochandra Irengbam, DTO Thoubal; “Motor Vehicle Mechanisms, Functions and Troubleshooting” by Kh. Sanjeev, DTO Imphal West; and “Road Safety and Drivers’ Responsibilities for Safe Driving” by Shantikumar Naorem, Member Secretary, IDTRC Manipur. The event was attended by Samson Huidrom, Deputy Director (Transport), Manipur, along with staff and officials of the Transport Department, drivers, conductors, and other participants.