Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio inaugurated the Unity Gate at NH-29 bridge, Patkai College junction, Chümoukedima. Speaking on the occasion, he stated that the Unity Gate, a Naga traditional gate, was adorned with a combination of traditional designs and termed its inauguration as a red-letter day for Nagaland.
Rio emphasised that the word “unity is the simplest, yet the most important word in human society”. He expressed the hope that the gate would inspire Nagas to unite, fostering peace in the land and infusing day-to-day activities with renewed vigour.
Referring to the old gate often seen in government power point presentations, Rio said the state government had initially planned to construct another gate adjacent to the old one. However, issues arose later when during the construction work for four-lane road and the old gate was damaged due to rock fall.
The decision to erect the new gate was eventually made with the departments concerned and his ministerial colleagues, he said. He explained that the gate was constructed on a cliff so as to avoid obstruction and also keeping in mind the strength of the gate to withhold any rock falling.
Rio said he took initiative for a collaborated effort with Naga professionals and even hiring machineries from Assam to transport stones.
While lauding the collective efforts of all in making the Unity Gate a reality, Rio urged everyone to view it as a shared symbol and also appealed to public to take care of the gate, which would serve as a welcoming symbol to all visitors.
The chief minister hoped that the Unity Gate would become a hub, fostering greater sense of unity and oneness in the Naga community.
He expressed confidence on the assurances of the locals along with the civil society organisations to ensure cleanliness in the area, and also transforming it into a thriving tourist destination.
He also disclosed government’s development plans in the area with well-lit food courts and cafes, which would generate employment opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Delivering the technical report, PWD (NH) chief engineer I Tiameren said the department was assigned the task of executing the project and claimed that the gate’s architecture was designed based on the rich cultural and traditional heritage of the people of Nagaland.
Revealing its specifications, he said the gate measured 55 feet in length, 12 feet in breadth and 56.5 feet in height, and was constructed at a cost of Rs 180 lakh.
The programme was chaired by Works &Housing Department commissioner & secretary Kesonyu Yhome, dedicatory prayer offered by Nagaland Joint Christian Forum vice-president Rev Dr N Papinho and greetings delivered by Angami Public Organisation president Razouvotuo.