Nagaland Concept for makeover of Naga Shopping Arcade

A group of local entrepreneurs has prepared a concept proposal to redevelop the existing Naga Shopping Arcade into a modern “mini-city” complex- an idea that could help revitalise Dimapur’s urban economy and attract large-scale investment to Nagaland.
The group clarified that the proposal has not yet been discussed with Development Authority of Nagaland (DAN) or any government authority, but is being put forward as a vision that policymakers may consider. According to the concept plan, the entrepreneurs envision transforming the ageing NSA into a multi-functional commercial and public hub capable of accommodating malls, office spaces, hospitality infrastructure, residential units, cultural facilities and multi-level parking.
They said the idea stems from Dimapur’s growing challenges- unplanned expansion, congestion and shortage of organised commercial spaces- despite being the state’s commercial centre and gateway.
The proposal argues that the existing structures, built decades ago using load-bearing walls instead of modern MS beams and columns, are no longer suited for large-capacity, multi-storey use. In an earthquake-prone region, they said, reconstruction rather than renovation would be a safer and more sustainable option.
Under the plan, the mini-city would include two shopping malls, a 100-room 5-star hotel, corporate and government office space, residential flats for officials, a multi-cultural hall for 1,500–2,000 people, landscaped promenades, an amphitheatre, and parking for 500-600 vehicles. Green spaces, water bodies and energy-efficient architecture have also been proposed to create an environmentally friendly urban zone.
The entrepreneurs claimed the project could boost state revenue, expand retail and service sectors, attract outside investors, and generate substantial employment during both construction and operation phases. They said such a development could also align with tourism goals by offering better event spaces and hospitality options.
The proposed plan, if considered, can be implemented in phases and would require detailed examination of financial viability, Return on Investment and long-term sustainability. The group said the architectural drawings and broad concept details are being readied and may be submitted to authorities for consideration at a later stage.