In an assessment based on satellite imagery and field assessments by engineers of the department, Kinimi attributed the recurring flooding to “unchecked riverbed exploitation, encroachment, and improper project execution.” When river levels rise sufficiently, he explained, water can flow back into major town drains and nallahs in Dimapur and Chümoukedima. “Instead of rainwater draining away into the river, the river water surges back into our streets and homes,” he stated. Kinimi also pointed to encroachment of natural drainage channels as a major factor worsening flooding within the towns. He said several natural drainage paths and nallahs have been encroached upon by buildings and other structures, restricting the movement of water.