The United Naga Council has suspended its four-month economic blockade of Manipur’s national highways after tripartite talks in Guwahati. The blockade was lifted at 6 pm on Saturday following an agreement with the Centre and the state government.

The blockade began in May after six Naga civilians were kidnapped from a village in Kangpokpi district. Their bodies were found in June, sparking anger in Naga areas. The UNC then blocked the Imphal-Dimapur and Imphal-Jiribam highways, Manipur’s two lifelines.

The shutdown choked the supply of fuel, medicines and food. Petrol sold for as much as Rs 250 a litre in the black market, and cooking gas cylinders cost up to Rs 5,000. Both valley and hill districts suffered shortages.

The talks were held at the BSF frontier headquarters in Guwahati. The UNC said it appreciated public support during the agitation. Officials hope the agreement holds, bringing relief to the landlocked state.