Heavy rainfall disrupted Zunheboto Government College’s 4th cultural day celebration on March 28, forcing the event to shift abruptly from the college ground to the auditorium. (Morung Photo)
Tokavi K Zhimo
Zunheboto | March 28
Zunheboto Government College (ZGC), the only arts college in Zunheboto district, revealed serious infrastructure gaps after its 4th cultural day celebration was disrupted by heavy rainfall on March 28.
The event, initially held on the college ground, was interrupted by sudden rain during the special guest’s address, forcing organizers and attendees to make an abrupt shift to the college auditorium.
The situation worsened inside the auditorium, where inadequate facilities posed further challenges. The hall reportedly lacked proper electrification and power backup, creating inconvenience during the ongoing programme.
An alumnus of the college stated that attendees including staff, students and officials were seen repeatedly shifting their seats as rainwater seeped through the damaged roof of the auditorium. The poor condition of the roofing led to water dripping inside the hall, causing discomfort and disruption. In addition, the programme faced audio issues, with noticeable echo and sound disturbances affecting audibility during speeches and performances.
“Despite efforts by the organisers to manage the situation, the continuous downpour compounded the disruptions. It affected the overall conduct of the cultural day celebration, and we felt very embarrassed,” a student said.
A senior college lecturer also expressed concern over the prevailing conditions. “We still lack the basic infrastructure required to conduct formal programmes. The hall, which was originally intended to be an indoor stadium, is now being used as a multipurpose hall. We feel for the students and want to provide them with better facilities, but we are helpless,” the lecturer remarked.
Highlighting the financial constraints, the lecturer added, “Even the painting of the college was carried out through contributions from the teaching faculty and former principal Dr K Kalito Chishi two years ago, as the building’s condition had deteriorated. We have not yet been able to clear the remaining debts, as the contributions were insufficient. We continue to function under deplorable conditions compared to other government colleges in the state.”
Meanwhile, another student criticised the lack of contingency planning. “The organisers should have prioritised backup arrangements, such as installing temporary waterproof shelters or arranging a proper indoor venue, especially considering the ongoing rainy weather,” she said.
She further pointed out persistent technical issues, stating, “The College faces problems such as a faulty sound system, damaged roofing, and lack of proper electrification and power backup. These issues make it difficult for the audience to follow the programme. A proper technical setup is essential to ensure smooth conduct of such events.” She also noted that the college auditorium is too small to accommodate large gatherings.
Another student reflected on the disruption: “Even though I wasn’t there, I felt awful hearing what happened. I can only imagine the effort the organisers put in- events like this take so much planning and hard work behind the scenes.”
She also expressed empathy, “I feel for the participants who were excited to showcase their talents, and the spectators who were eager to be part of it. What made it even more emotional is that for many seniors, this was meant to be their last cultural programme—a final memory they would have cherished.”
She acknowledged the disappointment but highlighted the lasting value, “It’s truly unfortunate that rain disrupted everything. Still, not all effort goes to waste. The unity, excitement, preparation, and spirit behind it still matter. Sometimes things don’t work out, but they leave lessons, memories, and a stronger sense of togetherness.”
“Maybe this moment will remind us to come back stronger, better prepared, and even more united next time,” she added.
The incident has raised concerns among attendees about the infrastructure at ZGC, with many questioning how a government institution in the district continues to struggle with such basic facilities. There are growing calls for authorities to address the longstanding infrastructure deficiencies at the district’s only arts college.
