Garo Labour Corps Cenotaph to be ready soon

TURA, July 6: The permanent Garo Labour Corps Cenotaph at Babupara is expected to be completed very soon, with nearly 90 per cent of the civil construction work already finished, Cabinet Minister Marcuise N. Marak said after inspecting the site on Monday.

The Minister reviewed the progress of the memorial along with members of the Preservation of Garo Arts, Culture and Heritage Sub-Committee and representatives of various social organisations. The inspection was followed by a meeting to finalise preparations for this year’s Garo Labour Corps Day.

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.

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 told Hub News.

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.

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.

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