Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the new office of the Dimapur Municipal Council at the Integrated Business Hub and Innovation Centre (IBHIC), Forest Colony in Dimapur today.
In his address, the Chief Minister called on the “educated, hardworking and eager to serve” councillors to take up the challenge to transform Dimapur into a vibrant and liveable city. He also urged them to be sincere and to exhibit deep commitment in their roles.
Noting the temporary nature of the DMC office, Rio urged the councillors to design a new and permanent office building and submit proposals when the Finance Commission convenes and extended the state government’s support of such initiatives.
Addressing immediate concerns, the Chief Minister highlighted the need for road repairs, traffic management, and town cleanliness and announced that the government has already approved a garbage dump site for DMC, allocating 10.74 acres for Dimapur and 9.41 acres for East Dimapur. He also advised the councillors to identify sites for cemeteries, stressing the need for a burial system that accommodates the diverse tribes and religions living in Dimapur.
Further, he proposed that the councillors implement a system to generate revenue through entry and exit taxes within Dimapur. He also stressed the importance of maintaining public parks, managing encroachment issues, and developing designated marketing and shopping areas to ease traffic congestion. Additionally, the Chief Minister suggested allowing certain shops and hotels to remain open on Sundays, given Dimapur’s role as a transit hub for travellers.
On the concern of water supply in the city, he noted that the widespread digging of bore wells was depleting the water table and urged the municipal body to plan for the supply of clean and safe water, advising them to come up with a comprehensive project for government assistance.
Rio outlined broader urban development goals including improving Dimapur’s sanitation, beautification, street lighting, and educational institutions. He emphasized the need for a master plan to elevate the city’s rankings and attract resources to sustain its growth. Highlighting the need for the city to generate revenue and become self-sustaining, the Chief Minister encouraged the councillors to embrace the opportunity to lead Dimapur towards a prosperous future.
Hukheto Yepthomi, Chairman, DMC in his address, shared that the new office space has given new impetus to transform. He assured that the current DMC councillors understand the problems and issues of the Dimapur and are working tirelessly to tackle these issues and to take Dimapur to new heights.
He informed that the office has begun the process to digitizing its trade license branch and had plans to expand digitization efforts to other branches soon. He also mentioned that DMC is also actively participating in the Swachhta Hi Seva Campaign focusing on community engagement and awareness in cleanliness and waste management.
MLA and Advisor for Labour, Employment & Skill Development, Excise, Moatoshi Longkumer remarked that the denizens of Dimapur now have a dedicated office to serve the community and expressed gratitude to the support and leadership of the Chief Minister for the successful conduct of the municipal elections. Longkumer reminded the newly elected DMC members that their work has only just begun.
The Advisor pointed out pressing issues, such as the need to improved roads and comprehensive drainage system in Dimapur. He urged councillors to fully understand their responsibilities and work with dedication and vision to take the city forward.
H. Tovihoto Ayemi, MLA and Advisor for Tribal Affairs, congratulated the councillors and expressed his delight and hailed the event as a significant achievement for the people of Dimapur. He said that is a monumental moment for the community and noting that it took over two decades to successfully conduct the ULB elections and establish a new office for the DMC. He expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio for his pivotal role in securing the location for the new office.
Encouraging the newly elected DMC members, Ayemi emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication. “As you take on this responsibility, I urge you to embrace the new challenges and strive for improvement,” he said, reinforcing the need for progressive action to advance the council’s objectives.
Abu Metha, Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland, in his speech, highlighted the perseverance that has brought Dimapur to this moment. Reflecting on the journey, he noted that it had been one filled with legal battles and consultative meetings. However, with the unwavering support of elected members and citizens alike, a major milestone has now been achieved in the governance structure of Nagaland.
Describing Dimapur city as a “Mini India” and the gateway to ASEAN markets, he emphasized its undeniable economic potential and stressed that Dimapur, in particular, holds a key position in Nagaland’s future. However, he noted that for Dimapur to realize its role as an economic hub, it requires the collective efforts of all its citizens. He concluded by urging for unity and collaboration, stating, “If we work together, Dimapur can become a beacon of growth, leading Nagaland towards a prosperous future.”
The inaugural program began with a dedicatory prayer led by Rev. Dr. Lima Jamir, Associate Pastor of DABA, followed by the unveiling of the plaque by Neiphiu Rio. The welcome address was delivered by I. Sentinuklu Jamir, Councilor, Dimapur Municipal Council, and words of gratitude were expressed by Imlinaro Stephanie Ezung, Deputy Chairperson of DMC. A special song was performed by NK Naga and the program was chaired by Kili N. Sumi, Councillor, DMC.
