The JAC Against Non-Supply of Drinking Water, Lilong Bazar to Lilong Ushoipokpi, has announced an indefinite general strike to be commenced from 5 pm on March 11 due to the continuous non-supply of drinking water at Lilong market and surrounding areas after the taking out of pipes for road expansion in 2021. The strike will be held on the National Highway 102, Imphal-Moreh road section.
Speaking at a press conference organized by the JAC at Lilong Heinoumakhong on Tuesday, JAC Convenor Aziz Lamin Nongjai stated that the non-supply of drinking water to the public since the taking out of water supply pipes for the highway section from Lilong market to Ushoipokpi and connecting villages for road expansion in 2021 is due to the irresponsible actions of the Manipur government, PHED, and NHIDCL.
He further said that it is a great misfortune that the pipes have been left unfixed and unrepaired until today. For a long time, various clubs and organizations have repeatedly appealed to NHIDCL and the relevant departments of the Manipur government to repair the pipes and ensure the supply of drinking water to the public. However, they have been apathetic towards the people’s suffering.
On March 3, the JAC had submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister of the state, Yumnam Khemchand, urging him to ensure the supply of drinking water to the public immediately. The memorandum was also sent to PHED, NHIDCL, and the DC Thoubal. However, due to the lack of any positive response until today, a general strike has been called out of desperation. The general public from Lilong Market to Ushoipokpi is urged to support this cause. It has been stated that the general strike will not affect the fire, water, examinations, and other religious observances.
It may be mentioned that the JAC Against the Non-Supply of Drinking Water was formed by the collective efforts of nine clubs, including Social Development Association, Lilong Uku; Social Development Organisation, Lilong Turek Ahanbi Mathak Leikai; Lilong Bazar Development Club, Lilong Bazar; Lilong Ipham Leikai Development Club; Resident Welfare Association, Lilong; Lilong United Club, Lilong; United Youth Development Association, Lilong Uku Mamang; Mohammadan Sporting Association, Lilong Heinou Makhong; and ESM Members Welfare Association, Lilong.
