Temjenmenba inaugurates DTO complex in Dimapur

Advisor for Transport & Technical Education, Temjenmenba, on Tuesday emphasised professionalism, public service and revenue generation, stating that the Transport Department must adopt a more citizen-centric and efficient approach as it continues to play a crucial role in the state’s economy.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the newly constructed District Transport Office (DTO), Dimapur, located at Model Colony, Purana Bazar, near the ISBT Complex.
Temjenmenba underlined the growing importance of the department in the state’s economy, noting that it was among the highest revenue-generating sectors. In the context of Nagaland being a revenue-constrained state and the withdrawal of revenue deficit grants under the 16th Finance Commission, he said the department’s role had become even more crucial in bridging financial gaps.
He called for expanding the scope of the department beyond issuing licences and registrations. “We must use data generated from our offices to innovate and address broader transport-related challenges,” he said, pointing to efforts to introduce an Intelligent Transport Management System to improve traffic regulation, enhance revenue and reduce road fatalities.
Describing the new DTO office as a “landmark for Dimapur,” he expressed confidence that it would evolve into a centre of excellence. He said officials must demonstrate patience, professionalism and a service-oriented attitude, particularly for citizens who may lack awareness of procedures.
He also appreciated the contractor for completing the project ahead of schedule and acknowledged the support of the NST department for providing the land, stating that such cooperation would enhance activities and revenue generation for both departments.
Commissioner & Secretary for Transport, Robert Longchari, said the inauguration marked the beginning of a renewed commitment to serve the people with greater efficiency, transparency and responsibility.
He highlighted the critical role of the DTO in issuing licences, regulating transport systems, maintaining vehicle records and ensuring road safety, adding that the Regional Transport Authority functions placed the office at the centre of public service and administration.
He stressed that infrastructure alone did not define success, but rather the dedication, integrity and public trust in the institution. He also noted that the department was the second-highest revenue-generating department in the state after taxation, and expressed hope that the new facility would further enhance service delivery and revenue generation.
Earlier, Transport Commissioner Elias T. Lotha traced the DTO’s journey since 2003, recounting its relocations due to infrastructure constraints. He said the new office was made possible through government support and land provided by the NST department. He disclosed that the Dimapur DTO generated approximately Rs 46 crore in the 2025–26 financial year.
Executive Engineer Renben Kikon informed that the project, sanctioned in 2022–23 under state funding, was completed at a cost of Rs 499.86 lakh. The construction, awarded to M/S Noaia Class-I contractor, began on July 3, 2023 and was completed in October 2025 ahead of schedule.
The building spans 19,200 sq ft and includes a two-storey RCC structure, canteen, pollution testing units, parking yard, water reservoir, substation and firefighting system.
The programme was chaired by Vileto Natso, with invocation by Hukato Sema and welcome address by Keneingunuo Clara. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Bendang Longkumer and benediction by Paul N. Rengma.