The old Naga Cemetery in Lakeview colony, Dimapur.
ASTD targeting project completion by NCD’s 75th jubilee
Morung Express News
Dimapur | March 4
The old Naga Cemetery located in Lakeview colony, Dimapur, was abandoned in February 2020 after running out of space. It practically implied neglect with vegetation overcoming the place.
According to the Ao Senso Telongjen Dimapur (ASTD), it also became a rendezvous point for unwanted elements and activities. “After the cemetery was left unattended, it became a spot for miscreants and thieves and other illegal activities,” President of ASTD, Ningsangwaba Pongen, told a press conference in Dimapur on March 4.
As a counter measure, the ASTD took up a project to preserve and beautify the cemetery in March 2022. It involved an agreement with the Naga Council, Dimapur (NCD), which owns the property and had also operated the cemetery. Subsequently, Pongen said that an ASTD committee was delegated to take up the preservation and beautification project, which involves building an 850-capacity prayer hall and a tower, followed by beautification work.
“In other places, cemeteries are maintained with reverence and become tourist attraction. We took the step keeping that in mind,” added Imti Aier, Convenor of the cemetery beautification project. Updating on the progress of work, Aier informed that they are targeting to complete the prayer hall and tower by the end of the year. The NCD is on way to complete 75 years of formation and the ASTD’s intention is to complete the project coinciding with the jubilee, added Aier.
While stating that the ASTD has already invested around 60-70 lakh into the project, Aier said that it initially started with a seed fund of Rs 3 lakh. According to him, the ASTD has received help from individuals and has also appealed the government agencies for aid.
The abandoned cemetery, covering some 5.2 acres, was established by the Naga Council Dimapur in 1972. It witnessed approximately 7000 burials over the next 48 years.
After announcing the beautification project in early 2023, a public announcement was made informing families/relatives of the deceased laid to rest in the cemetery to identify the tombs for renovations/modification, if any, for beautification.
The ASTD informed that it has so far received 2283 registrations and appealed others to come and register. It added that it was welcome to aid towards the project from well-wishers. They can contact the ASTD President at 8974052376 and Secretary at 9436262568/ 8837048239.
