Residents of Jiribam Request Reduced Chopper Fare to Imphal

Last Updated on October 5, 2023 by SPN Editor

Jiribam/ October 05, 2023 (SPN) | Residents of Jiribam have requested Chief Minister N Biren to reduce the chopper fare to Imphal.

They appeal to reduce the current fare at an affordable rate of Rs 2500 per passenger, taking into consideration the difficulties faced by the residents of Jiribam due to the current tense situation in the state.

The All Jiribam United Club Association (AJUCA), representing civil society organizations (CSOs) and student bodies, submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister through the Deputy Commissioner of Jiribam, urging a fare reduction to Rs 2500 per passenger for the welfare of Jiribam’s residents.

A copy of the memorandum has also been provided to the Transport Minister.

AJUCA emphasized that the condition of National Highway-37 makes long journeys unsafe and unsuitable for passengers, particularly in the current conflict situation in Manipur.

In connection with this matter, a press conference was held today, attended by members of AJUCA, JDO, United Jiri Youth League, AJMP, MSF, DESAM, KSA, AMWOVA, and another student body.

During the press conference, AJUCA President M Maipaksana stated that the chopper service is currently the safest mode of travel for residents traveling from Jiribam to Imphal. He urged the Chief Minister to consider reducing the chopper fare to Imphal at an affordable rate.

The chopper fare for the Jiribam-Imphal route was initially set at Rs 2500 per passenger. However, it was raised to Rs 3800 per passenger during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic and has remained at that increased rate, despite the pandemic being under control.

• Also Read: Train to Manipur will shorten Assam Manipur by 2 hours

The chopper service, operated by Noida-based state-run Pawan Hans, offers a flying time of approximately 30 minutes, a stark contrast to the nearly 10-hour journey by road from Jiribam to Imphal.

Passengers using this service are permitted to carry a maximum of five kilograms of luggage. The chopper used for this service is an eight-seater aircraft.

Recently, helicopter services were launched from Churachandpur to Aizawl and Kangpokpi to Dimapur for the Kukis staying in the two districts.