A new public space-the Digital Library cum restaurant-was officially inaugurated on November 25 at the historic World War II Battle Tank area in Phegei, Kohima. This is a project  under the Kohima Smart City Mission (SCM).

The ceremony was graced by Special Guest Advisor for the Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department, Zhaleo Rio IAS (Retd.). In his inaugural address, he commended the exceptional workmanship of the project, noting that the creation of a vibrant hub for work, exercise, dining, and culture would be immensely beneficial for both the local public and tourists.

Sharing a personal connection to the site, Rio recounted visiting the area in his younger days after classes. “I would often stand here and visualize transforming it into something both beautiful and useful,” he shared. “To see that vision realized is a dream come true and a source of profound personal happiness.”

Looking to the future, he made a strong appeal to the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) to convene and discuss taking direct responsibility for the operation and upkeep of the area. He proposed that this would be preferable to handing it over to private parties, ensuring it is maintained in line with the government’s vision and can generate public revenue. He stressed that such public stewardship must be executed with “absolute honesty, transparency, and a commitment to proper maintenance.”

Rio also expressed a broader concern about public assets falling into disrepair, stating that Nagas need to be more civilised. He elaborated that while personal conduct is often moderating and civilised, public conduct can sometimes lag behind. He emphasized that the project is not merely for beautification but about providing for fundamental community requirements and fostering a more cultured public sphere. He concluded with a hope that the public would utilize this new space to its fullest.

Superintendent Engineer (D) PWD (R&B) and Authority’s Engineer for KSCDL, Neilabeizo Angami, presented the construction report, outlining the project’s background and specifications.

Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play

Project Background:

The project was centered around a World War II battle tank that had lain neglected and underutilized for years, despite its historic significance and tourism potential. The initiative was conceived to meet the growing demand for public recreational spaces, digital learning centers, and organized food and cultural hubs, thereby revitalizing the area into a multi-functional public asset.

The work was executed on an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract by M/S North Eastern Power Carrier, with a work order issued on May 5, 2022. The total cost of construction was ₹9,24,85,000 (Rupees Nine Crore Twenty-Four Lakhs Eighty-Five Thousand).

Major works carried out include:

• A G+2 building with a total built-up area of 802.20 square meters.
• A Digital Library with e-resource access points and hi-speed Wi-Fi.
• An Interactive Kiosk (2 units) for public access.
• Extensive civil works including Composite Retaining Walls, fencing, footpaths, and roofing.
• The restoration and beautification of the World War II tank, now protected under a traditional Naga-style roof (“Naga-Ki”).
• A Recreational Park with jogging paths, a children’s play zone, an open gym, an amphitheatre, and public toilets.
• Artistic wall murals depicting local culture.

The total project area spans approximately 4,090 square meters.

The new hub offers:

• Semi-open and enclosed dining spaces with separate washrooms.
• An outdoor deck with a viewing area.
• A digital reading hall with computer terminals.
• A recreational park with an amphitheatre, play zone, and open gym.
• Walkways with artistic murals.

The event was chaired by the CEO of KSCDL, Er. K Theunuo. The program commenced with an invocation by Thinuohelie Sachü, Associate Pastor of BRC Kohima Village, and featured a special song presentation by Menguü Suokhrie. The vote of thanks was delivered by Mhonchumo Kithan, Finance Officer of KSCDL.

Earlier in the program, the chief guest officially inaugurated the digital library, marking the facility open for public use.