Local holiday declared in West Garo Hills
Tura, July 6: Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak on Monday inspected the ongoing construction work of the Garo Labour Corps Cenotaph at Babupara, stating that nearly 90 per cent of civil work has been completed.
The minister led the inspection along with members of various social organisations, followed by a meeting to finalise preparations for this year’s Garo Labour Corps Day.
Expressing satisfaction with the pace of construction, Marak said the project was progressing faster than it appeared from the outside.
“Nearly 90 per cent of the civil structure has been completed. While the exterior may not reflect the extent of the work, the interior is almost ready. I appreciate the architect and everyone associated with the project for ensuring that the work is moving ahead swiftly,” he said.
A sub-committee research team has identified descendants of members of the Garo Labour Corps who served in France during the First World War. They will be honoured during the commemorative programme in recognition of the sacrifices made by their ancestors.
The Tura Municipal Board has been entrusted with organising the event under the supervision of its Chief Executive Officer, J.R.T. Sangma.
The sub-committee has also decided to establish its office at the old PWD Inspection Bungalow, located around 300 metres from the Cenotaph. The site is also being considered for the development of a dedicated war memorial honouring the Garo Labour Corps.
Committee members acknowledged the support extended by the PWD Building Division, the Electricity Department and the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council in providing essential infrastructure, including electricity and water connections, for the memorial project.
The permanent Cenotaph is being developed to honour the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps, whose members served with distinction behind the front lines in France during the First World War. It is expected to become a landmark of remembrance and historical significance in the region.
As the memorial will not be completed before July 16, this year’s Garo Labour Corps Day will be observed at the District Auditorium in Tura. The traditional gun salute will be held at the adjoining parking area.
Holiday declared
The Deputy Commissioner of West Garo Hills has declared July 16 (Thursday) as a local holiday throughout West Garo Hills district to mark the 108th Recruitment Celebration of Garo Labour Corps Day.
According to a notification issued by Deputy Commissioner Vibhor Aggarwal, all state government offices, revenue and magisterial courts, and educational institutions under West Garo Hills district will remain closed on the occasion.
Copies of the notification have been forwarded to all concerned departments, including the Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, the Garo Hills Division, GHADC, Superintendent of Police, district heads of offices, education authorities, and the Directorate of Information and Public Relations for necessary action and wide publicity.
The 108th Garo Labour Corps Day celebration will be observed across the district with commemorative programmes scheduled to honour the legacy of the Garo Labour Corps.
