In response to public grievances highlighted in this newspaper regarding the worsening drainage condition in Dimapur’s Naga Shopping Arcade area (Supermarket), the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) conducted an early morning inspection on Tuesday to assess the situation and initiate urgent remedial action.
The inspection was led by DMC chairperson Hukheto Yepthomi, accompanied by sanitation councillor Nzanbeni Humtsoe and Ward 20 councillor Lanuchuba Imchen. The team, along with staff from the sanitation department and Development Authority of Nagaland (DAN), arrived at the site around 6:30 am, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the matter.
Speaking to Nagaland Post, Hukheto highlighted the critical need for proper drainage system in urban areas, stating, “Without a proper drainage system, even constructing a house becomes problematic. It’s time we give due priority to such basic civic needs.” His statement reflected the council’s growing concern over the long-standing neglect of essential infrastructure and the impact it has had on urban planning and public safety.
As the Supermarket area falls under Ward 20, councillor Lanuchuba Imchen voluntarily stepped in to assist, demonstrating a collaborative spirit and sense of civic responsibility. He acknowledged that the drainage problem has been a recurring concern for several years, adding, “After the report in Nagaland Post, we decided immediate action was necessary. The public cannot be made to suffer due to negligence.”
In addition to drainage concerns, the DMC also referred to the broader sanitation issue currently being tackled across Dimapur. Hukheto lauded the role of local communities, business owners, and entrepreneurs in extending their support to the municipality.
“Some entrepreneurs have come forward to offer manpower and support for the cleanup and maintenance drive. This kind of public-private collaboration is essential for sustainable solutions,” he noted.
He also appreciated the Commissioner of Police (CP), Dimapur and his team for their cooperation and assistance during the recent facelift of the flyover at Batacharali. The involvement of multiple stakeholders, according to Yepthomi, was instrumental in implementing effective civic measures.
Further, reiterating the DMC’s commitment to civic welfare, he said the council was in active discussions with relevant state departments, adding that plans were underway to formulate long-term strategies under the guidance and leadership of the chief minister to ensure enduring improvement in drainage and sanitation infrastructure.
The councillors assured residents and business owners that immediate steps would be taken to clean and repair the drainage system. They reiterated that all structural concerns would be addressed without delay, reflecting the council’s renewed focus on ensuring a cleaner, safer, and better-managed Dimapur.