Imphal, August 11: Putting a hold on the proposed agitations in view of ANSAM suspending its economic blockade, presidents of three student bodies, AMSU, DESAM and MSF today emphasised on the need to speed up the developmental work of NH-53 which connects Imphal with Jiribam.

In a joint press briefing held this evening at the MSF office premises, the student leaders maintained that people should still remain alert as the reason cited by ANSAM for lifting the blockade lacks clarity.

ANSAM had yesterday stated that it was lifting the blockade in view of the sufferings faced by the people and taking into consideration the intimations from the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister.

Elaborating, Desam president L Romesh contended that the sudden turn around of Ansam, ostensibly following intimations from the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister, needs a clear explanation especially in view of the arrival of two PMO officials soon after the decision to suspend the stir was taken.

Stressing on importance and significance of establishing additional surface transport routes, Romesh said the student bodies would not remain silent spectators if Central and State governments neglect NH-53 as well as other available road links.

In fact the need of the hour is accelerating the developmental works of Imphal-Jiribam road as well as stressing on NH-150, he said while stating that relying on NH-53 only during emergency situation amounts to lack of vision.

Romesh also appealed to the driver community to ply on this route inspite of facing inconveniences as lack of interest from the drivers would ultimately lead to the Government taking the matter for granted.

He also assured that AMSU, MSF and Desam are strongly committed towards the development of NH-53 and added that they will take up appropriate course of agitation if the Govt abandons the ongoing plan to make NH-53 fit for vehicular movements.

Blaming the Govt for failing to solve the ANSAM problem which inconvenienced the people no end, Romesh S Sanjoy announced keeping in abeyance proposed closure of Government offices and boycott of Independence Day celebration.

Joining the press briefing AMSU president S Prakash cautioned that involvement of Assam Rifles in the economic blockade is clear warning to the people to be vigilant in foiling attempts of vested interest to create dissension amongst various communities.