The much-anticipated upgrade of Dimapur Town Hall was inaugurated on December 17 2024 at NSA Super Market, Dimapur. This milestone was a significant step towards improving urban infrastructure in the region under the leadership of the Urban Development Department.
In his inaugural speech, Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio emphasized Nagaland’s rapid urbanization, with the urban population recording at 66.70% growth since the 2011 census. He underscored the need for resilient infrastructure to sustain this growth and called for investment in urban centres like Dimapur, a key economic hub characterized by its diverse population and strategic location.
Acknowledging global projections that 68% of the world’s population will reside in urban areas by 2050, Rio stressed the importance of balanced urban and rural development to ensure economic prosperity. He reaffirmed the Nagaland Government’s commitment to building sustainable infrastructure, particularly in transportation, railways, and marketplaces, to improve accessibility and quality of life.
He also said that The Dimapur Town Hall has been successfully upgraded to meet modern standards, blending tradition with contemporary needs. Where he highlighted that the project involved durable materials, robust acoustic treatments, advanced audio and lighting systems, centralized air conditioning, enhanced safety measures, power backup, and beautification works. This sustainable upgrade reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to building a new structure, improving comfort for public use.
The CM also said that the facility for rewired power connectivity and other enhancements have been handed over to the Development Authority Nagaland (DAN) for operation and management. Established in 1976 under the Nagaland Town and Country Planning Act of 1966, DAN is a statutory planning body responsible for asset management, revenue generation, and self-financed development projects.
Rio said Dimapur Town Hall holds cultural significance as a venue for festivals, religious rituals, weddings, and other social events. Its upgraded amenities now cater to modern needs while preserving its role as a community hub. Officials emphasized the Importance of efficient management and civic responsibility in maintaining public assets.
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The project has been praised for its potential to reduce energy consumption, lower maintenance costs, and support the artistic and cultural development of the citizens of Nagaland. The government congratulated the successful completion of the upgradation and extended best wishes for its continued utility to the people of Dimapur, Rio said.
Advisor of Tribal Affairs & Election, Government of Nagaland, H. Tovihoto Ayemi, who graced the occasion as the honoured guest described the event as the beginning of a new chapter for the city, emphasizing the hall’s role in symbolizing progress and service.He recalled that the foundation stone for the original town hall was laid in 1986 by former Chief Minister S. C. Jamir, but over time, the facility fell into disrepair and had to be shut down. Thanks to the vision and efforts of the Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, the dream of a modern town hall has been realized, offering the people of Dimapur a fitting venue for various civic and cultural activities. Tovihoto expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister, calling the new building a “Christmas gift” for the city.
Equipped with modern amenities such as greenrooms, washrooms, a cafeteria, and fire safety measures, the hall is being hailed as the finest of its kind in the state. Tovihoto also urged the citizens to preserve and responsibly use the facility, emphasizing it as a shared community asset and noted that the inauguration of this landmark facility marks a step forward in Dimapur’s development, strengthening its role as a cosmopolitan hub.
Keynote address was delivered by Chairman of the Development Authority Nagaland, Dimapur, Dr. Watizulu Süzümeren, where he said that a significant new town hall has been inaugurated in Dimapur, marking a milestone in community development and cultural unity. Envisioned as a central hub for cultural, social, and administrative activities, the hall has been entrusted to the Naga community for its care and preservation.
Speaking at the inauguration, community leaders emphasized the hall’s role as a “symbol of unity and progress,” encouraging collective responsibility for its upkeep. Residents welcomed the new facility, recognizing its potential to strengthen communal bonds and serve future generations and the town hall stands as a tribute to collaboration and shared ideals, inspiring hope for continued growth and togetherness.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, followed by a cultural presentation organized by TaFMA.
