Nagaland RCD rededicates hearse van

The Rotary Club of Dimapur rededicated its newly refurbished hearse van at a programme held at the Club premises on Monday. Deputy Commissioner of Dimapur, Dr. Tinojongshi Chang, graced the occasion as chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Chang expressed gratitude to the Rotary Club for its continued humanitarian service and acknowledged the pressing need for a dedicated hearse van in Dimapur. He noted that despite the availability of ambulances, families often face challenges in transporting mortal remains, especially when patients pass away during treatment in Dimapur.
He said the newly introduced vehicle—the first of its kind in Dimapur—would ease such difficulties and hoped it would also benefit neighbouring districts. Dr. Chang further expressed confidence that the Rotary Club would continue to inspire other NGOs and civil society organisations to undertake similar initiatives.
Clarifying misconceptions related to Inner Line Permit (ILP), the DC reassured Rotary members—many of whom are non-Nagas—of the administration’s full support. He emphasized that Dimapur’s growth is a collective effort of all communities and called for continued cooperation.
Rotary Club president Pankaj Modi said the initiative reflects the Club’s commitment to dignity, compassion and service beyond self. Vice president Pradeep Jain informed that the hearse van has been relaunched after necessary modifications and will be available on call to all communities.
The vehicle will transport bodies to cremation grounds or cemeteries within Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland. Families must contact the number displayed on the vehicle at least two hours in advance. A minimal fee will be charged for maintenance, while the service will be free for those unable to afford it.
The programme was chaired by Vijay Sharma, chairman of Membership Development, Rotary Club of Dimapur.