Nagaland’s ambitious Nagaki City project, envisioned as the state’s first planned modern city, is beginning to take shape after resolving early-stage land ownership challenges, signaling a significant step in Nagaland’s urban development drive. Advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, Zhaleo Rio, confirmed that groundwork has begun for the 39 sq km project site in the Chathe Valley under Chümoukedima district, with plans already underway for road infrastructure and a sports complex.
“In the beginning, there was considerable confusion as some landowners were willing to part with land while others were not,” Rio said on Tuesday at the Chümoukedima Town Council Hall. “After proper awareness and explanation, the local villagers are now encouraging the government to move forward.”
The Nagaki City, conceptualized as an “incubation city,” is part of a larger national initiative under the 15th Finance Commission’s Rs 8,000 crore challenge fund, which aims to develop eight new cities across India. Nagaland’s proposal, titled the Nagaki Global City Project, was among 26 submitted to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) in 2023.
According to Rio, around 39 square kilometres have been allocated for the “incubation city,” which forms the first phase of the project. The planned area will include facilities and infrastructure characteristic of a modern city, including residential zones, roads, and amenities.
He informed that groundwork for the project began about two years ago. “We are pleased to have successfully acquired the necessary land to commence the project,” he said, adding that construction of a sports complex has already started, while plans are in place to develop well-structured roads as part of the city layout.
Rio also mentioned that the firm responsible for the planning process is nearing completion of its work and expressed optimism that the Government of India would extend its support for the development of Nagaki City.
