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Dimapur, the commercial hub of Nagaland, acts as a vital economic link for the state and the surrounding region, including parts of Assam. So, indefinite business closure in the city has a severe cascading effect on the people residing there- those who depend on its commercial activity and even those in neighbouring areas who rely on Dimapur for their needs.
Loss of Livelihood
Indefinite shutting down of businesses translates directly to job loss. Daily wage earners, shop assistants, salespeople, and those employed in the service industry will face instant financial hardship. Additionally, small business owners, who rely on daily sales, will see their income streams dry up. This can lead to a domino effect, impacting families who depend on these wages for their basic necessities.
Disruption of Supply Chain
Dimapur serves as a distribution centre for goods to various parts of Nagaland and Assam. Closure of businesses will disrupt these supply chains, leading to shortages of essential commodities like food, medicine and other daily necessities. Prices of available goods might surge due to limited availability, further straining household budgets.
Reduced Public Services
Municipal services like waste collection, sanitation and transportation heavily depend on revenue generated through commercial activity. Indefinite business closures would lead to a decline in tax revenue, potentially impacting the ability of the government to maintain these essential services.
Strained Banking System
Loan defaults could rise as people struggle to meet their financial obligations due to job losses and income reduction. This could strain the local banking system, impacting loan availability for future business ventures and potentially hindering economic recovery.
Psychological Impact
Uncertainty surrounding the duration of the closure and the future of their jobs could lead to anxiety, stress and a decline in mental well-being among the people of Dimapur.
Limited Access to Goods and Services
People from surrounding areas, who rely on Dimapur for essential supplies and services like healthcare, education and repairs, will face difficulties in fulfilling their needs. This could force travelling to faraway locations for basic necessities, adding to their financial burden.
Impact on Agricultural Produce
Farmers in the region often sell their produce in Dimapur markets. Business closures may disrupt these established channels, leading to potential wastage of agricultural products and income losses for farmers.
Reduced Cross-Border Trade
Dimapur acts as a hub for trade between Nagaland and Assam. Closure of businesses will lead to a decline in this activity, impacting businesses and traders on both sides of the border.
Investment Discouragement
Indefinite business closure can create a negative perception of Dimapur as an investment destination. This could discourage potential investors from setting up businesses in the city, further hindering economic growth.
Out-migration
Job seekers and working professionals could be forced to migrate to other cities or states in search of better opportunities, leading to a decline in Dimapur's skilled workforce and impacting the city's overall economic potential.
Slow Economic Recovery
The time taken for businesses to recover after reopening will depend on the severity and duration of the closure. A long pause could lead to a sluggish economic recovery, impacting the overall well-being of the people in Dimapur and surrounding areas.
Indefinite business closure in the city could have severe economic repercussions, not just for the city itself but also for the people in surrounding areas who depend on it. The impact would be far-reaching, affecting livelihoods, access to essential goods and services, and the overall well-being of the people. By implementing effective mitigation strategies and planning for revival, the negative consequences can be minimised and the path to economic recovery can be paved.
Dharma Dhaj Sonowal
Dimapur, Nagaland.