Bridge on National Highway 2 in Manipur damaged in IED explosions

• Bridge on National Highway in Manipur was severely damaged by IED explosions
• Incident raised concerns about the polling booth to be conducted on Friday
• Authorities have launched investigations to ensure the safety of essential infrastructure in the region

A bridge located on National Highway 2 in Kangpokpi district of Manipur suffered severe damage following three improvised explosive device (IED) explosions. The incident, occurring around 12:45 am, resulted in structural damage to the bridge. Fortunately, no one was injured from the explosions.

The videos circulating on social media show the damage caused on the bridge affecting regular vehicular movements. The bridge is located between Sapermeina and Koubru Leikha. NH 2 highway connects Imphal to Dimapur in Nagaland. 

The incident occurred just two days ahead of the polling for the Outer Manipur constituency (covering 13 assembly constituencies), which is scheduled on Friday. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched an investigation into the incident. Security forces have been installed in the area and are conducting thorough searches to apprehend those responsible for the explosions.

“We are aware of the IED explosion, but since polling in Kangpokpi district took place in the first phase, it shouldn’t affect polling for the second phase on Friday,” said Manipur chief electoral officer, Pradeep Kumar Jha.