More than half urban local bodies in Nagaland non-functional, says Zhaleo Rio

There are 39 urban local bodies (ULBs) in Nagaland but as many as 20 are non-functional due to lack of human population, shops and revenue — Zhaleo Rio, Advisor of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs

DIMAPUR – There are 39 urban local bodies (ULBs) in Nagaland but as many as 20 are non-functional due to lack of human population, shops and revenue, said Zhaleo Rio, Advisor of Urban Development and Municipal Affairs, on Saturday.

Speaking during the inauguration of East Dimapur Town Council (EDTC) office at Purana Bazaar in Dimapur, Zhaleo said that the state government is seriously working on resolving the ULB election issue as the state is not receiving funds meant for urban and town development because of it.

The matter is sub judice as it is with the Supreme Court, but he said the state government is planning to have a consultative meeting with all the stakeholders to discuss the Municipal Act very soon.

The government wants to resolve the issue fast and hold ULB election, he said while urging the citizens and council leaders to cooperate with the administrative offices in running of the local areas.

Inaugurated the new office of East Dimapur Town Council in the presence of Smti. Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor, Industries & Commerce, as well as govt. officials & senior party leaders.

It's yet another step towards positive change! pic.twitter.com/HAPErqkPwM

— Zhaleo Rio (@ZhaleoR) July 29, 2023

Waste disposal challenge

When floods hit Dimapur during the monsoon season, citizens blame the DMC or the council members but the people also have to develop a civic sense and know how to maintain as well as manage the waste they produce, said Zhaleo, mentioning how waste dumped in the drains blocks the rain water flow and causes flooding.

“It is the responsibility of the municipalities as well, but each and every household should take care of their waste,” he said, adding that sanitation and waste disposal/management has become a big challenge across Nagaland.

He lamented that Dimapur has many beautiful water bodies but people have started constructing buildings by filling it up with soil. This, he said, is affecting the environment, as water bodies maintain ecological balance.

Assuring that the government will deliver the goods and election promises to the people, he also requested the citizens of Dimapur to cooperate with the leaders in developing the city.

Less than 40% shops seek renewal

When asked about the presence of many local bodies instead of a unified municipal body, on the sidelines of the programme, the advisor replied that the main purpose is to maintain the garbage and provide better services to the citizens.

On excess staff in the municipal councils, he replied that the ULBs should look for post creation and not adhoc appointment.

There is a big scope for increasing revenue but the ULBs have not been effective in that, he said while mentioning that less than 40% of registered shops seek renewal. On this, he expressed hope that the system and revenue will improve with the introduction of digitisation system of shop permit renewal.

He also said that he is taking up the issue of check gate closure and that it will be opened soon.

Also speaking at the event, Hekani Jakhalu, Advisor of Industries and Commerce, encouraged the council leaders to give their best and work for the public, saying that there are many instances of public properties being neglected after the government brings infrastructure.

Asserting that power and authority comes with responsibility, she urged the leaders to ensure that public properties are taken care of.

Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Sachin Jaiswal and Tohoshe Awomi, chairman of Purana Bazaar Tribal Council, also spoke at the event.

Also read: Nagaland education system becoming too bureaucratic, says Dr. Zavise Rume