Nagaland Digital library-cum-restaurant inaugurated in Kohima

A new Digital Library-cum-Restaurant, developed under the Smart City Mission (SCM) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, was inaugurated on Monday at the World War II Battle Tank area in Phegei, Kohima.
Speaking as the special guest, advisor for Urban Development and Municipal Affairs Department, Zhaleo Rio, (Retd.), praised the project’s “exceptional workmanship” and said the facility had successfully transformed the area into a vibrant hub for work, exercise, dining, and cultural engagement. He expressed confidence that the space would greatly benefit both residents and tourists.
Reflecting on the site’s history, Rio recalled visiting the park during his school days and imagining its potential. “To see that vision realized is a dream come true,” he said, adding that the transformation brought him “profound personal happiness.”
Rio urged the Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) to consider taking full responsibility for operating and maintaining the facility rather than outsourcing its management to private parties, asserting that such an approach would help the council generate revenue while ensuring transparency and proper upkeep. Public projects, he stressed, must be maintained with “absolute honesty” and aligned with the government’s development goals. Expressing concern over the deterioration of many public assets due to poor maintenance, Rio remarked that “Nagas need to be more civilised,” noting that while people maintain discipline in private spaces, public conduct sometimes lags behind. He emphasized that the project is not just about beautification but about addressing basic public needs. He concluded by expressing hope that the public would use and care for the new facility.
Presenting the construction report, superintendent engineer (D), PWD (R&B) and authority’s engineer, KSCDL, Neilabeizo Angami, said the project comes under the Tourism & Heritage component of the Kohima Smart Cities Mission. He stated that the new facility aims to enhance public amenities, promote tourism, and create a culturally engaging recreational space.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by KSCDL CEO Er. K. Theunuo, with an invocation offered by associate pastor, BRC, Kohima Village Thinuohelie Sachü. A special number was presented by Menguü Suokhrie, and the vote of thanks was delivered by KSCDL finance officer Mhonchumo Kithan.