Dimapur, Nagaland’s oldest city, is now facing increasing competition as Diphu in Assam gears up for rapid development. With new infrastructure projects underway, Dimapur’s long-held economic lead is being tested.

Dimapur vs Diphu: A Historical Overview

Dimapur, an ancient capital city, traces its origins to between 1330 and 1370, while Diphu became the district headquarters of Karbi Anglong in 1951.

Dimapur has historically maintained a strong economic edge:

• Per capita income (2022–23): ₹1.94 lakh

• Population: ~1.77 lakh

• Railway station established: 1903

• Airport operational: since 1972

Diphu, with a population of roughly 88,000, recorded a per capita income of ₹1.24 lakh. Its railway station came up in 1951. For decades, Dimapur’s early infrastructure gave it a clear advantage.

Challenges to Dimapur’s Growth

Dimapur’s growth slowed from the mid-1990s due to rising extortion and harassment of businesses. Despite this, the city retained its lead thanks to historical economic momentum.

Now, Diphu is witnessing significant infrastructure investments, putting Dimapur’s dominance under pressure.

Diphu’s Transformation Plans

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has announced major projects in Diphu, including:

• An international-standard swimming pool

• A state-of-the-art cancer hospital

• A modern flyover for traffic management

• A lake beautification project

• A greenfield airport in the Kheroni area for regional connectivity

The new airport aims to boost tourism and economic activity, with direct flights to Guwahati and Jorhat, followed by other major cities.

The Bokajan railway station is also being considered as an alternative to Dimapur station due to land constraints in Dimapur.

Dimapur’s Micro Mini-City Vision

To counter Diphu’s rise, Dimapur plans to accelerate infrastructure development through a micro mini-city project on the Naga Shopping Arcade land.

Key features include:

• Two shopping malls

• 100-room five-star hotel

• Corporate and government office spaces

• Residential flats for officials

• Multicultural hall seating 1,500–2,000 people

• Amphitheatre, landscaped promenades, green spaces, and water bodies

• Parking for 500–600 vehicles

• Energy-efficient and environmentally sustainable design

The project aims to revitalize Dimapur’s urban economy and attract large-scale investment.

Strategic Importance and Future Prospects

If executed well, Dimapur’s redevelopment could lead to a mega urban region, merging Dimapur, East Dimapur, and Chümoukedima.

The focus should remain on strengthening existing advantages, rather than creating entirely new city projects. The vision document, if implemented effectively, could transform Dimapur into a modern, multi-functional urban hub.

Officials and citizens are urged to recognize the urgency. Delays in development could result in lost economic opportunities and diminished regional influence.