Nagaland: Recurring drainage overflow, damaged footpath spark concern

A persistent sanitation and infrastructure issue has resurfaced in Dimapur’s key commercial areas, with residents and shopkeepers raising concern over recurring drainage overflow near Axis Bank at Middle Point and a damaged footpath below the Titan showroom on Nyamo Lotha Road.
At the Middle Point-Clock Tower junction, drainage water has continued to spill onto the roadside, emitting a strong foul smell and creating an unhygienic environment for pedestrians, commuters and nearby businesses. Stagnant wastewater from the roadside drain has accumulated along the pavement and road edge, particularly during peak hours when the area witnesses heavy vehicular and pedestrian movement.
Shopkeepers said the stench has been affecting customers and disrupting daily business activities. Some expressed frustration that despite repeated complaints and earlier media reports, the problem remains unresolved. Nagaland Post has previously highlighted the recurring overflow in the Middle Point area, yet the issue persists, pointing to deeper infrastructural deficiencies.
Residents and business owners attributed the repeated overflow to an inadequate drainage system, stating that the drains are either poorly designed, damaged or frequently clogged with debris and solid waste. As a result, wastewater backs up and spills onto the streets, especially in this high-traffic commercial zone. They also noted that irregular maintenance and lack of periodic desilting have worsened the situation over time.
Apart from the unpleasant odour and inconvenience, the stagnant water poses potential health risks, including mosquito breeding and the possible spread of water-borne diseases.
Meanwhile, pedestrians are facing difficulty navigating a damaged stretch of footpath below the Titan showroom along Nyamo Lotha Road. Portions of the pavement have caved in, while drainage covers are broken or displaced. In some sections, concrete slabs have sunk into the open drain below, leaving wide gaps that are currently marked only by caution tape and temporary supports.
The damaged footpath has considerably narrowed the walking space, forcing pedestrians to step onto the busy roadway, thereby increasing the risk of accidents. The area witnesses significant footfall throughout the day, with shoppers, office-goers, students and elderly residents regularly using the route.
Local shopkeepers said the damage has persisted for some time and appears to be deteriorating further, particularly after recent rains. They pointed out that while temporary markings have been placed around the most affected portion, proper repair and reconstruction work have yet to begin.
Residents and business owners have appealed to the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) and other concerned authorities to conduct an immediate inspection of the drainage infrastructure at Middle Point, clear and repair blocked drains, and reconstruct the damaged footpath along Nyamo Lotha Road to ensure pedestrian safety.
They emphasised that as Dimapur continues to expand as a commercial hub, maintaining efficient drainage systems and safe pedestrian infrastructure must be prioritised to prevent recurring inconvenience, health hazards and potential accidents.