We Nagas are so used to being served for free, we have even become obnoxiously demanding when we do not get our daily dose of freebies. We whine about the Municipal Corporations not doing its job, but happily dump our garbage on the road or drainages. We throw a tantrum whenever there is a power shortage or outage, but have absolutely no qualms about stealing electricity by hooking, tampering meter boxes, or never paying bills. We complain about the state of our Government hospitals but never take a moment to think twice about spitting in every nook and cranny. We complain. That seems to be the best thing we do. It is my belief that the time has come for us to change. And what better way than to give back to the land that has given us so much.
The past week saw Kohima transformed. The paan stained, trash strewn streets and pavements were given a much needed facelift, and the people were given a lesson in civic sense through the massive sanitation drive. The efforts did not go unnoticed or unappreciated; however speculations abound in the midst of all these. The main cause of speculation being whether this development will be continued or that it is just a one time show. Here, it will be unfair and wrong to point fingers at NBCC if this gesture is discontinued, and instead of just speculating or making cynical comments, people should come together and design a plan so that this kind of exercise goes on well into the future.
One has to appreciate the highly commendable job of the flower committees of the respective churches, not just for beautifying Kohima but also the countless hours spent behind the scenes decorating our Churches so beautifully every Sunday. Also it will be amiss not to appreciate the work of the contractor who almost overnight transformed the roads of Kohima, and has now made it a joy to drive on.
Now the question arises, how then can we the public, the neediest citizen contribute to uphold this development? There are 35 Baptist Churches in Kohima and a suggestion or rather an earnest request here would be the adoption of those sites which were decorated during the NBCC Platinum Jubilee celebrations in the town by each church, preferably those in close proximity to the sites. For example, the Traffic point at Razhü Point could be adopted by Union Baptist Church, the High School Junction by Peraciezie Baptist Church, TCP Gate area by Churches in and around New Market or Dak Lane. Every Sunday, invariably the Church is decorated with flower and plants. What the churches could do is take those same flowers and set them up at their adopted sites after the Church services are over. Also this exercise need not be Baptist exclusive, but different denominations could take it up on a rotation basis. It need not be overdone to such unrealistic proportions that it becomes unmanageable or become a competition, but enough to show we care about our city.
As for the more crucial aspect of things the laudable efforts taken by the Sanitation Committee, KVYO and other organizations should be a cue for the rest of us. It’s not difficult to comprehend the fact that every one of us has a role to play if we desire a cleaner, greener land. Each colony could take care of its streets, employ a sweeper, create awareness on this issue, adopt rules and regulate them stringently, fine the offender if necessary. In short create deterrents so that the citizen is informed, conscious, and well mannered. On the part of the citizen a very simple philosophy rules, just as we do not like picking other’s trash, so does the other person not like picking ours.
Kohima may not be a world class city but nothing should stop us from being a world class citizen. A week is almost up since the Jubilee, and as the week draws into an end, it is hoped and prayed that, the wishes and suggestions mentioned above may see fruition by this Sunday itself.
Pete Yiese
