Call for urgency in tackling air pollution

To observe the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) organised a talk show titled “The Air We Share: Bridging Policy & Public Action” at Town Hall, Dimapur on September 9. The event brought together policymakers, administrators, civil society members, youth and media to discuss air quality trends and collaborative strategies under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), a DIPR report stated.
The programme was chaired by Senior Scientific Assistant, NPCB, Olivi G. Chophy, and moderated by Junior Scientific Assistant, Rongsenben Longkumer. Delivering the keynote address, Scientist ‘B’ and NCAP Nodal Officer, NPCB, Yanathung Kithan, cited WHO data indicating that 99% of the global population breathes unsafe air. He revealed that Dimapur has been listed as a non-attainment city by the Central Pollution Control Board, with pollution levels rising by 35% between 2020 and 2024. He said NCAP aims to reduce pollution by 40% by 2026, but achieving this target requires collective action.
Member secretary, NPCB and State Nodal Officer, NCAP, Hukato K. Chishi, presented data showing a worsening trend in particulate pollution and warned that public health would continue to suffer without urgent intervention.
Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, shared that NCAP funds have been utilised for road repairs, dust suppression and awareness campaigns. However, he stressed that enforcement alone is not enough and called for greater community ownership. CEO Dimapur Municipal Council, Thungchanbemo Tungoe, spoke on efforts to reduce localised pollution, including door-to-door waste collection and road sprinkling, but noted that public habits such as waste burning remain a major challenge.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), I. Meren Chenthi, addressed traffic-related pollution and outlined measures such as one-way systems, stricter parking enforcement and upgraded signal infrastructure. He said proposals for flyovers and bypass roads are under consideration to ease congestion.
Chief Medical Officer Dimapur, Dr. T. Yetovi Tuccu, linked rising pollution to respiratory and chronic illnesses and informed that Dimapur is now part of the National Programme on Climate Change and Human Health. He urged citizens to take preventive steps such as wearing masks and avoiding exposure during peak pollution hours.
President of Team Better Dimapur, Mhonchan Humtsoe, shared civil society perspectives, highlighting voluntary efforts in tree plantations and clean-up drives. NEISSR student Neiketouno Thapo added the youth voice, proposing a “one student, one tree” campaign to expand green cover in the city.
Panelists also discussed the impact of construction and demolition (C&D) waste and recommended integrating the C&D Waste Management Rules, 2016 into Nagaland’s building bylaws.
The session concluded with an open Q&A forum, where students and members of the public shared concerns and suggestions through a “genius box” placed at the venue. The programme underscored the need for collaborative action to improve air quality and safeguard public health in Dimapur.