CM Rio inaugurates Phek DC office complex

PHEK — Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on Thursday inaugurated the Phek Deputy Commissioner's Office Complex with a call for efforts to bring development to the grassroots.

The inauguration of the new office coincided with Phek district’s 50th anniversary.

Unveiling the commemorative plaque, Rio acknowledged the collaborative efforts of parliamentary colleagues, the CAWD department, and tribal leaders in establishing the DC’s office complex. He expressed optimism that the office would play a pivotal role in bringing development to the grassroots level and serving the general public.

The programme, presided over by deputy commissioner of Phek, Kuko Mero, included a brief technical report presented by Assistant Chief Engineer, CAWD, Sungtiba Amer.

Amer informed that the construction of the building was conceptualised in 2007-08 to meet all the necessary requirements. It is a moment of pride for the state as the building is now a reality, occupied, and functioning for the residents of Phek district, he said.

The contractors for the office construction were Keduo-o Zumu and Jack Dozo, representing the firm of M/s Keduo-o Zumu. The project commenced in 2008 and concluded in 2023, with a total cost of INR 9,72,46,000.

The newly inaugurated (G+2) storied RCC structure spans 30,271 sq.ft, comprising 56 rooms, including storerooms, and 29 bathrooms.

The complex will house various departments, including the Deputy Commissioner, Election, NIC, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW), Disaster Management, and Aadhaar Cell.

Amer expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, who took a keen interest in the proposal for the new DC office complex in Phek. The proposal was initially put forward by MLA Kuzholuzo Nienu, and subsequent sanctions were accorded, leading to the earnest commencement of the project.

However, Amer mentioned that the project faced challenges midway, and with the 2018 elections approaching, the District Administration had to urgently occupy the incomplete office complex for the election. CM Rio's shift to Delhi as MP resulted in a standstill for over three years.

Upon Rio's return as CM in 2018, the CAWD revived the project and completed it. Amer congratulated Advisor, CAWD Kudecho Khamo, for successfully completing the office complex during his first-year tenure. He also acknowledged CM Rio for allocating necessary funds to complete over 30 projects, including today's DC office complex in Phek.