Dimapur: Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio held a meeting to review preparations for the upcoming 10-day Hornbill Festival, scheduled from Dec 1 at Kisama near Kohima, at the CM’s residential complex in Kohima on Tuesday.Chairing the meeting of the high-powered committee (HPC) and concerned departments, Rio stressed the need for proper signage, zebra crossings, and other necessary arrangements to ensure the convenience and safety of tourists visiting the festival site and other tourist spots.He also spoke on the statewide mass social work scheduled for Nov 13, calling for active participation from all quarters.He directed the concerned departments to give wide publicity to the programme.The meeting, attended by cabinet members, senior govt officials and representatives of various departments concerned, deliberated on matters relating to the smooth conduct of the festival. Discussions included the Protected Area Permit (PAP) issue, chief guest for the inaugural programme, and other arrangements for the festival.Commissioner and secretary, tourism, Kovi Meyase briefed the meeting on the preparations being undertaken at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, laying emphasis on waste management, food stalls and sensitisation programmes for stall operators to ensure cleanliness and proper hygiene during the festival.The meeting was also informed about the proposed BBQ Zone or barbecue area at the amphitheatre area and also stressed promoting locally made products and ensuring that refreshments, including coffee and tea, served at Kisama are sourced from within Nagaland.The public health engineering department said restoration of water supply pipelines is underway, while the power department apprised the meeting of the ongoing installation of solar lighting.The meeting also discussed preparations for the stone-pulling ceremony, which is an important component of the festival.
