Kohima and Dimapur continue to grapple with deteriorating air quality, with multiple locations in both cities exceeding the permissible limits for particulate matter (PM10). Data from the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) has revealed alarming pollution levels, particularly in Dimapur, where several monitoring stations recorded PM10 levels far above the 100 µg/m³ standard set by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for 24-hour exposure.
According to the latest air quality monitoring reports, Dhobinala in Dimapur recorded PM10 levels of 246 µg/m³ and 241 µg/m³ on January 21 and 23, 2025, respectively, making it one of the most polluted areas. Similarly, Burma Camp, another commercial hub, reported levels of 211 µg/m³ and 236 µg/m³ on the same dates. Other residential areas, such as Bank Colony and Nagarjan, also recorded high pollution levels, with values reaching 193 µg/m³ and 183 µg/m³, respectively.
In Kohima, although some improvements were noted compared to previous years, PM10 levels at PWD Junction and High School Junction remained above the permissible limit. On January 21, 2025, PWD Junction recorded 120 µg/m³, while High School Junction registered 148 µg/m³. The data underscores the persistent air pollution challenges in the state capital despite ongoing efforts.
During a meeting of the Air Quality Monitoring Committee (AQMC) on 29 November 2024, chaired by E Mhonbemo Patton, Principal Secretary, Environment, Forest & Climate Change (EF&CC), concerns were raised regarding the lack of scientific studies identifying the primary causes of air pollution in Dimapur. It was noted that while the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Chumoukedima is conducting a study for Kohima, no such research has been initiated for Dimapur. Patton stressed the need for a comprehensive study to determine pollution sources and implement targeted policies.
The Member Secretary of NPCB, K Hukato Chishi, briefed officials on the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP), revealing that Kohima and Dimapur have been classified as “non-attainment cities” since 2019 due to consistently high pollution levels. He also highlighted that NPCB has been monitoring air quality in these cities for over 15 years, with data showing a worsening trend in Dimapur since 2020, while Kohima’s air quality remains beyond permissible limits despite slight improvements. It was decided that NPCB would begin publishing weekly air quality data across media platforms to raise awareness, with the Director of DIPR requested to facilitate the dissemination of this information.
Additionally, the Transport Department provided updates on vehicle emissions testing, reporting that out of the 287 vehicles tested, 26 failed emissions standards. It was also noted that penalties for failing vehicles are Rs 300 for diesel vehicles and Rs 200 for petrol vehicles. The Principal Secretary emphasized the need for stricter vehicle pollution checks and increased surveillance.
As part of mitigation efforts, the Urban Development Department reported pothole repairs in five locations under NCAP, while the Municipal Affairs Department was urged to track and report activities carried out by Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) under the program. The Municipal Affairs Department was also instructed to collect documentation, including before-and-after pictures of projects undertaken under NCAP, to ensure transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, the Principal Secretary directed NPCB to request District Administration and other relevant departments to submit reports on air pollution control activities. Departments were reminded that the Ministry would not release funds for 2024-25 until all required data, including bills and utilization certificates, were uploaded to the designated portal.