Kohima: Air pollution in Dimapur is reaching dangerous levels. Data from the Nagaland Pollution Control Board shows a 25 percent increase in pollutant concentrations over the last three years. Levels jumped from 86 micrograms per cubic metre in 2022 to 107 in 2025. This consistently exceeds the national standard of 60 micrograms.
The board monitors seven locations across the city. Commercial hubs like Dhobinala and Burma Camp suffer the worst air quality, with some areas hitting 139 micrograms. Residential zones are also failing. Kuda Village and Bank Colony recorded averages between 103 and 107 micrograms. Junior Scientific Assistant Rongsenbenla Longkumer noted the severity of the trend. "In that aspect, the air quality in Dimapur is not as ideal as we would like it to be," she said.
Multiple factors drive the spike. Dust from unpaved roads and sand stockists along highways clogs the air. Heavy vehicular emissions and the burning of household waste also contribute heavily. Small-scale industrial units, including stone crushers, brick kilns, and plywood factories, further degrade air quality by operating without proper pollution control devices.
The problem is worsening in rural areas too. Monitoring stations in Phek, Zunheboto, Peren, Wokha, Mokokchung, Mon, and Kiphire indicate rising pollution levels tied to firewood use and waste burning. Officials currently use manual instruments to track particulate matter and gases three times a week. While the board pushes for better road maintenance through the PWD and encourages electric vehicle adoption, they emphasize that change begins at home. Residents should stop burning trash, segregate waste, and dampen dusty areas near their homes. The board continues to work with churches and village councils to spread awareness, hoping for a collective shift in habits.
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