The Naga Shopping Arcade, popularly known as the “Supermarket” and one of the town’s busiest commercial centres, continues to grapple with civic infrastructure issues, including its poorly maintained drainage system.
Stretching from the main highway to the market area, several drainage channels remain in a state of disrepair — many are left uncovered, without warning signs or barricades.
These open gaps have become hazardous for both pedestrians and motorists. Vehicles frequently get stuck while attempting to cross the area, and the lack of any signage or safety barriers has only added to the danger.
The situation has led to mounting frustration and concern among the general public, particularly vendors and shoppers who rely on the market daily.
Public have been urging authorities to address the issue promptly, pointing out that the deteriorating condition of the drainage system not only affects business and accessibility but also poses serious safety risks.
The arcade serves as a bustling centre for daily trading activities, with local produce and a wide variety of goods sold regularly. It also hosts weekly markets and public events, making the condition of its infrastructure all the more pressing.
It may be recalled that the area’s troubles were highlighted by a tragic incident on October 12, 2022, when a tree fell, killing a shopper and a vendor. In the aftermath, nearly a hundred trees lining the stretch between the old Dimapur-Kohima Road and the Naga Shopping Arcade were cut down as a preventive safety measure.
In an effort to restore the area’s lost green cover, the Dimapur Forest Division under the Department of Environment, Forest & Climate Change carried out a plantation drive on June 28, 2023.
Held under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), the initiative saw the planting of 150 nahor (Mesua ferrea) trees and 300 bougainvillea plants along the market stretch, aiming to promote urban greenery and improve air quality.
Despite these environmental efforts, residents and business owners continue to urge the authorities to turn their attention toward the crumbling drainage infrastructure. They stressed that sustainable development must also include the upkeep of basic civic facilities to ensure that public safety and commercial activity can go hand in hand.