The City of Imphal is located in a Valley. Over my trips of last 20 years ,I have seen this city turning and twisting as it has embraced the growth pattern. A flyover is fully operational and new buildings are rising each day. The best of the cars,clothes and perfumes can be seen all around. The off-shoot of growth is dust and traffic woes. Both these features are in abundance as Imphal continues its march.
We woke up to a bright and sunny morning with a slight mist. As Unni Sir had also mentioned in his write up that Sun breaks out suddenly in the North East. The rising Sun looks majestic and our rooms were filled up with a cosy warmth. We got ready and loaded our Santa Claus bags (gifts weighed 46 Kgs!!) into the Diesel propelled Renault Duster. Taking over the con of the Duster,I rolled out towards NH-39 which gets us to the border town of Moreh.
We reached the location of 15 Assam Rifles enroute Moreh to connect with Avneet Singh Kapoor/Fox/91. Avneet is a cherubic and energetic Fox and was a key member of the Delhi Fox Group till he took over the Command of the 15 AR.
We had a grand welcome by Avneet and his turbo team of Officers.It was great to meet each of the smiling Officer and the great bonhomie that was visible amongst the crew.Avneet has a well oiled Paltan and the interaction was superb. The time flew by and we shared a meal together. After an emotional farewell and some lovely snaps,Avneet let us leave for Moreh.
I pressed on the pedal and the Duster responded well. The vehicle was fully loaded and also carried my 03 St. OMs!!! NH-39 has been freshly laid and was a pleasure to drive on its curves and bends. The silent evening soon turned into darkness and the traffic on road was thin. An occassional Vehicle from Moreh to Imphal zipped by us.
The X'mas effect was visible in all the villages and hamlets that we crossed. The soldiers at Check Posts were again amazed to see a Naval Officer moving inside the Army's bastion!!.The last Check Post before Moreh is in a Village called Khudenthabi. The barrier was locked and the key was in the possession of a young Captain who had retired to his quarters. The rank of "Commander" has a different connotation in the Army and in pitch darkness it can create panic,shock and awe!! The barrier was lifted and we cruised into Moreh which was fortunately lit up with Govt Electricity.Welcome to Home.
The sounds of Carols in the Churches was in the air and "Old Dog" added to the night. Merry X'mas.
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