Titular king and Rajya Sabha MP Leishemba Sanajaoba has urged the Centre to take up necessary steps to preserve the historic Koirengei Airfield as a national heritage site in recognition of its historical importance during World War II.
Putting up the matter during during the ongoing session of the Parliament on Monday, Sanajaoba stated that the Koirengei Airfield holds significant historical value as it was constructed around 1942–43 by American engineers during World War II and played an important role in the Allied forces’ operations in the Imphal region.
During that period, the airfield served as a strategic war site for the Allied forces and was used for military operations against Japanese forces advancing toward the Imphal Valley. The site remains an important reminder of the wartime history connected with the region, he stated.
Sanajaoba further explained that during the war, thousands of Allied troops were stationed and operated from this airfield. It also served as an important point for the eastern front of India during the war. Historical records indicate that the airfield witnessed intense military activities involving both Allied and Japanese forces, he stated.
He also noted that the airfield was used for military aviation purposes and that several wartime constructions were made in the area, including military airstrips and related facilities.
The MP also stated that during intense fighting along the border, thousands of displaced people from Burma (now Myanmar) and nearby border areas had taken shelter at the airfield.
The MP expressed concern that the condition of the historic airfield is deteriorating due to unregulated construction and the presence of military installations. He said that the people of Manipur are disappointed to see the present state of the site.
Considering its historical significance and the role it played during World War II, Sanajaoba suggested that the site should be preserved and developed as a National Heritage Site so that its historical value can be protected and promoted for future generations.
