Imphal, March 30 : Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Wednesday flagged off Imphal-Mao Manipur State Transport (MST) Bus Service from MST Complex, Moirangkhom here. The Bus Service was launched with an objective of providing a safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable public transport service. Speaking on the occasion, Biren stated that the bus service had been launched with the objective to maintain close relationships among people living in border villages and city areas. The bus service was of utmost importance for people of the State as better transportation facilities could strengthen connections among people of the people He recalled that the Manipur State Road Transport Corporation which had remained non-functional for a long time was revived as Manipur State Transport by the BJP led Government after its formation in 2017. Stating that around 28 buses were operating in the State providing transportation service, the Chief Minister added that the Government was in process of procuring another three buses. He continued that the State Government was planning to make the existing bus station at Dimapur functional considering the importance of operating bus service till Dimapur for the people of Mao. He also stated that the operation of bus service would be increased considering the demand for transportation. The Chief Minister said that regular bus service between Imphal and Mao would facilitate the people of Mao in marketing their local products and enhancing the economic activities of the State in general. Losii Dikho MLA stated that the Government had always been successful in addressing issues put up by its people. People from different comm ties had started working together for the development of the State under the leadership of Biren, he added. He further mentioned that economic activities would be enhanced with the launch of bus services. It may be mentioned that the bus plying from Imphal to Mao will depart from Nagamapal, RIMS Road Corner near Kasturi Thong at 7:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on every working day while the bus coming from Mao to Imphal will depart from Mao Bus Parking, near Traffic Island, Mao at 6:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Later, the Chief Minister visited Chingmeirong, eastern side of DM College, and took stock of the location where a temporary Mao Market would be set up. NS BM