The Nagaland DMC Demolition Drive has begun in Dimapur as the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) launched a phase-wise operation to clear illegal and temporary structures across the city. The drive aims to ease traffic congestion, restore pedestrian pathways, and reclaim public spaces that street vendors and unauthorised stalls have occupied for years.
DMC chairman Hukheto Yepthomi said the demolition action started after an inspection on November 24 with the Dimapur Traffic Police. The first phase, launched on November 25, covered the New Market stretch, Batacharali, and the area beneath the new flyover. He confirmed that the demolition will continue despite the festive Christmas season.
Hukheto said the next phases will target Hazi Park, Hongkong Market, and other congested pockets. He added that teams will remove street-side encroachments in two major locations next week. Councillors are supervising ward-wise operations to ensure systematic clearance.
The chairman clarified that the Nagaland DMC Demolition Drive focuses only on illegal and temporary structures and does not touch permanent buildings at this stage. The DMC plans to convert the cleared spaces into designated parking areas to reduce growing traffic issues.
He recalled that in 2023, Urban Development advisor Zhaleo Rio directed the DMC to take strict action against unauthorised structures. “We are following that directive,” Hukheto said.
Officials noted that most makeshift stalls had obstructed both traffic flow and pedestrian movement. Several shop owners also admitted that their stalls were set up without official approval.
The DMC will continue the demolition and clearance drive in phases over the coming weeks to restore order and improve urban management in Dimapur.
