A blend of Naga and Japanese design: Eco Park nears completion in Kohima

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio inspects ongoing works; assures Park will be ready ahead of Hornbill Festival

KOHIMA — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday visited the ongoing construction site of Eco Park in Kohima and said that it would be made functional before the Hornbill Festival in December.

After attending the 38th annual general meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland, Rio inspected the construction activities, took stock of the work progress, and offered his suggestions.

Speaking briefly to media personnel after the inspection, Rio said that the Eco Park would be made functional before the Hornbill Festival.

He further informed that the park would have dedicated spaces for exhibitions of Naga products, handloom and handicrafts, Second World War materials, Naga artefacts and antiques.

It would also provide a space for the sale of Made in Nagaland products, he added.

Related: Hornbill Festival prelude: Autumn Festival to begin in Delhi from Oct. 24

Hornbill Night Carnival application forms to be issued from October 22 in Kohima

NOVO from Assam wins Ticket to Hornbill 2025

Construction work is reportedly progressing in full swing. Inside the park, a house with a Japanese architectural touch can be seen atop a hillock, which is said to serve as the viewpoint.

It was learnt that the viewpoint structure combines both Naga and Japanese architectural styles. At the base of the viewpoint are three circular terraced levels filled with soil.

The park will also feature spaces for shops showcasing each tribe’s products, a cafeteria, an open-air theatre, and parking space for about 50 vehicles, among other facilities.

It may be recalled that Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Japanese Ambassador to India, Hiroshi Suzuki, jointly laid the foundation stone for the Eco Park on May 8, 2024, alongside the inauguration of the Kohima Peace Memorial.

WATCH MORE:

Both Rio and Suzuki had stated that the park would symbolise the growing friendship between Japan and Nagaland and further strengthen bilateral ties.

The facility is expected to promote peace and reconciliation while fostering environmental consciousness.

Rio was accompanied by NLA Speaker Sharingain Longkumer, several MLAs, officials, and others.