How not to develop

While cities in neighboring states are surging ahead with infrastructure and economic development, Dimapur, the commercial capital of Nagaland, seems to be stuck in the pool of misgovernance and neglect. Decades have passed without substantial progress in transformation of the city into a regional hub, despite its potential to rank among the leading cities of the Northeast. While roads connecting Dimapur to Assam remain relatively well-maintained up to the inter-state check gates, the internal roads of Dimapur tell a different story, with signs of neglect and deterioration. In contrast, Assam has rapidly developed its roadways into modern four-lane and six-lane highways, underscoring Dimapur’s lack of progress. Even Diphu, the district headquarters of Karbi Anglong, seems to be outpacing Dimapur in terms of infrastructure growth. Redevelopment and modernization of railway stations are underway especially stations like Diphu and Bokajan, with advanced facilities and multiple passenger platforms. The Assam government has demonstrated its resolve to transform the stations by removing illegal encroachments without hesitation, paving the way for progress. These stations, along with Dhansiri, are set to surpass Dimapur in their capacity and infrastructure. More platforms will attract long-distance trains, offering better connectivity and convenience to passengers. This will have a huge impact on tourism and trade. In comparison, Dimapur station remains constrained by its lack of space. Despite being the second-highest revenue earner for the Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR), the station’s growth is stifled. Work for redevelopment will be but only a mere token. This is because of absence of land for essential infrastructure, such as canopies and additional tracks, which highlight the station’s development challenges. The situation at Dimapur Airport is similarly disheartening. While air travel in the Northeast is expanding, the development of Dimapur Airport remains stalled. However, the inability to expand the runway and other facilities due to encroachment and improper land allotments has prevented its growth. Even if renovation work is underway, it will have negligible impact unless the state government takes concrete steps to shift the airport to nearby Chümoukedima. Unlike other airports such as Dibrugarh and Jorhat, which have seen significant growth, Dimapur Airport has been unable to keep pace. Dibrugarh, for instance, boasts two aerobridges and a 7,500-foot runway, covering 386 acres. In contrast, Dimapur Airport, which initially occupied 621.58 acres, has been reduced to around 300 acres due to encroachment. Consequently, even basic amenities such as covered boarding areas are absent, forcing passengers to walk to their flights, often through unfavorable weather conditions. The repercussions of Dimapur’s stagnation extend beyond infrastructure. Without proper development, Nagaland’s overall economic growth will remain hindered. Revitalizing the city demands a strategic focus on economic priorities, with decisions driven by practical needs rather than external influences. One of the most pressing challenges is addressing the unchecked activities of numerous organizations, unions, and committees that have turned fund collection into a livelihood. These groups often obstruct progress, diverting resources and discouraging investments. There are growing signs of entrepreneurs leaving Dimapur due to such problems. The state government must assert its authority to curb these practices and create an environment conducive to development. If decisive action is not taken, Dimapur risks becoming a symbol of lost potential- a city sidelined as the rest of the region progresses.