Dimapur has been classified as a non-attainment city by the Central Pollution Control Board, with air pollution levels rising by 35% between 2020 and 2024, the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) revealed during a talk show, “The Air We Share: Bridging Policy & Public Action”, held at Town Hall, Dimapur on 9th September 2025.
The event marked the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies and brought together policymakers, administrators, civil society representatives, youth, and media to discuss local air-quality trends, enforcement challenges, and collaborative solutions under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP).
Keynote speaker Yanathung Kithan, Scientist ‘B’ and Nodal Officer, NCAP, stressed the urgent need to tackle air pollution, describing it as “fundamental, invisible, yet essential to life.” Citing the World Health Organization, he noted that 99% of the world’s population breathes unsafe air, while the Air Quality Life Index Report 2023 estimated that air pollution reduces the life expectancy of an average Indian by 3.5 years.
Member Secretary, NPCB, Hukato K Chishi, IFS, highlighted Dimapur’s consistently high PM2.5 readings, warning that public health and quality of life would continue to deteriorate without urgent measures.
Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr Tinojongshi Chang, and CEO of Dimapur Municipal Council, Thungchanbemo Tungoe, outlined steps taken using NCAP funds, including road repairs, dust suppression, door-to-door waste collection, and awareness drives, but stressed that community participation is critical for long-term results. Traffic-related pollution measures, such as one-way systems and upgraded signal systems, were explained by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), I. Meren Chenthi.
Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur, Dr T Yetovi Tuccu, linked rising pollution to respiratory ailments, chronic diseases, and climate-related health risks, urging citizens to take preventive measures. Civil society and youth voices, represented by Mhonchan Humtsoe and NEISSR student Neiketouno Thapo, emphasized tree plantations, clean-up drives, and campaigns like “one student, one tree” to improve urban air quality.
The panel also highlighted construction and demolition waste as a key contributor to poor air quality and recommended integrating C&D Waste Management Rules, 2016 into local building regulations.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was collaboration: authorities, civil society, and citizens must work together to tackle pollution. The session concluded with an open Q&A, where students and the public shared concerns and suggestions through a “genius box” at the venue.
