Security has been significantly ramped up along the 80-km route from Imphal to Ukhrul district headquarters to ensure the smooth conduct of the 5th State-Level Shirui Lily Festival, scheduled to be held from May 20 to May 24, police said on Sunday.

According to officials, personnel from both Central and State security forces have been deployed along key points of the route, with special attention to the stretches between Yaingangpokpi to Mahadev and Mahadev to Litan. Combing operations, identity verifications, and regular patrolling are being conducted, especially in villages where new arrivals from other parts of the state are being closely monitored.

“Additional forces will be deployed during the festival to ensure round-the-clock security,” a senior police official stated, adding that tests have also been carried out to assess the range of wireless communication in the hilly terrain to facilitate rapid reinforcement if needed.

Meanwhile, volunteers from the Tangkhul Naga community have stepped forward to assist in ensuring the safety of tourists traveling from Imphal.

Several officials from various departments, including the Tourism Department, have already reached the festival venues in Ukhrul district to oversee preparations.

In response to concerns raised over potential threats targeting the Meitei community planning to attend the festival, allegedly from individuals or groups linked to the Kuki community, Manipur Police assured that such threats are being taken seriously and investigated promptly.

“Precautionary measures are firmly in place, and senior officers have been deployed to supervise overall security arrangements,” the police said in an official statement.