Bamboo is so closely etched in Naga culture. Since time immemorial Nagas have been using this wonder plant in almost everything to suit their needs. From building bridges to houses and morungs; and from using it in dangerous weapons of defence to beautiful handicrafts and basketry that fulfil everyday needs, bamboo is an integral part of every Naga life.
Barricades are used in day to day traffic management for multiple purposes,
(i) As traffic assistance tool
(ii) For road safety purposes
(iii) As temporary traffic signs to inform commuters about condition of roads etc.
Police have been using barricades made of plastic and metal since long, however very recently one of the unit officer, Shri. T. Henthai Phom NPS, ACP (Traffic) Zone-II came up with the idea as to why not try using treated bamboo instead of other materials. Treated bamboo is widely used in construction and furniture units; however using bamboo as barricades for assistance in traffic management is the first of its kind! His contention that, “ For any Naga who wants to build a fence or a barricade with locally available materials, the first material one would look for is a bamboo! So that’s how the idea was born! Why not bring bamboo to the street for assistance in traffic management!”.The bamboo barricade was conceptualized and designed by the officer himself. The pet project started with many reservations on 17th July 2020 with a rough sketch because it was ‘the road less travelled’. However, through the overwhelming support and encouragement from DCP (T) and Commissioner of Police Dimapur the project finally saw the light of the day on 4th August 2020 with its formal launch.
Bamboo has certain advantages over other material
(i) Its eco-friendly
(ii) Bamboo is locally available in plenty
(iii) Its strong and durable
(iv) Encouraging local entrepreneurs
(v) Low cost for production and maintenance is also low
(vi) Its lightweight and easy mobility has advantage over other heavy material
In this unprecedented pandemic situation where economy of all nations is worst hit, by using locally available and locally produced products, and by encouraging local entrepreneurs, we are playing a small part in making ourselves self reliant as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri. Narendra Modi in his Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan - of making India a self reliant nation.
Let us all encourage one another and be “ VOCAL FOR LOCAL ”
