Build Nagaland City State- Much-needed Development Projects

As we navigate the 21st century, we see the world advancing rapidly in many fields.

Our human existence and the nature of our living standard today can't be compared to village life (from manual farming systems to a technological world) of our forefathers. Today, as we see the whole world is at war, not with the power of guns, tanks or artillery, but instead using sophisticated unmanned drones in the skies, Iron Domes, laser guns and robotics systems replacing humans, which exemplifies the prevailing advancements today.

Whether we like it or not, we Nagas are also moving forward with the rest of the world towards civilization. In line with this, I would like to share my thoughts with the esteemed Naga leaders and decision-makers, about the need to think outside the box and plan with a futuristic vision for our small state of Nagaland by adopting city state model of development, especially in places like Dimapur, Kohima, and other towns and districts. Towards this, I would like to share my humble suggestions to the responsible Naga leaders, hoping that these ideas could be implemented for the benefit of the general Naga citizens, which would be a dream fulfilled.

The people of Nagaland are very thankful and appreciate the central government’s initiatives, as well as the present Nagaland state government, for building concrete roads including the four-lane roads from Assam to Kohima, which is still under construction, and the completed road from Purana Bazaar to Chathe Bridge (Patkai Bridge) and connecting roads in other districts.

Here are some of my personal humble suggestions for the esteemed concerned leaders or rulers of today to seriously ponder upon:

1. Naga Shopping Arcade, Dimapur (aka Supper Market) should be converted into ‘Nagaland Mega Shopping Mall (All-in-One), providing avenues to young upcoming Naga entrepreneurs.

2. All connecting roads across Dimapur should be built with paver road blocks instead of black topping with bitumen for durability, as seen in many parts of Assam.

3. Master plan for new districts especially Chumoukedima and Niuland before it’s too late.

4. Set up Nagaland City Planning Committee comprised of professionals and technical experts who can help change Nagaland in development aspects in the long run.

5. If possible, introduce underground cabling system for electricity, especially in Dimapur, Chumoukedima and Niuland, which will help solve irregular power supply for the consumers like in other metro cities.

6. Set up a separate committee for street lights to oversee its maintenance and beautification especially along the 4-lane road and highways.

7. More flyovers in Dimapur at locations like Burma Camp to Nagaland Gate, Nagarjan to Thahekhu Gate, Nagaland Gate via Notun Bosti to DC Court to Diphu Road, and Purana Bazaar to 4-Lane road via Khughovi village to address traffic congestion.

8. Cable car system in and around Kohima town, especially from Kohima Science College to New Secretariat Complex, etc.

There are many more that can be added to the list, but these are major concerns I have been sharing with many like-minded individuals. However, it is the decision and policy makers, concerned leaders, and the government of the day who hold the responsibility for turning these ideas into reality by implementing them.

Dr Kashito Kiba

A concern citizen of Dimapur