Dimapur: The ongoing indefinite shutdown in Dimapur, which kicked off in the city on Friday, and later extended across Nagaland, has triggered a surge in demand for essential commodities in neighboring areas of Assam.
Consequently, thousands of individuals from Dimapur, Chumoukedima, Niuland districts, and other parts of Nagaland thronged to Lohorijan, Khatkhati, and Bokajan areas in Assam to procure vegetables, fish, meat, and other groceries. Fuel stations in these towns also witnessed endless queues.
The sudden influx of consumers from Nagaland has led to a drastic escalation in prices. A visit to the Lahorijan market, adjacent to Dimapur, revealed that vegetable prices have spiked by Rs. 30-40 since Friday.
Tomatoes, which were priced at Rs 20 just two days ago, are now being sold at Rs 50. Similarly, okra (bhindi) has witnessed a price surge, rising from Rs. 50 to Rs. 80/90. Even chicken and fish prices have surged significantly, with some fish varieties shooting up by Rs 100-120.
Local consumers from Dimapur have expressed their frustration with this abnormal inflation.
Speaking to EastMojo, one shopper who had come to Assam for essential supplies criticised the traders and shopkeepers for taking advantage of the situation.
“This is really not a good practice. While affluent consumers may cope with higher prices, people with low income are finding it extremely difficult to afford basic necessities. Authorities should intervene to address this issue,” she said.
Another consumer from Nagaland expressed that if the indefinite shutdown continues, many people, might soon be unable to afford essential items.
Dimapur, renowned as the commercial hub of Nagaland, has witnessed a complete shutdown of over 30,000 shops and business establishments since April 26.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
The Dimapur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) initiated the shutdown in response to “unabated multiple taxation, intimidation, and summons” by Naga Political Groups. T
he DCCI’s press statement, issued on April 22, emphasised that the shutdown would persist until the business community’s grievances are addressed.
Also Read | Nagaland: Indefinite shutter down in protest against unabated taxation