DIMAPUR, April 4 - Dimapur town remained shut for two hours from 12 noon to 2 pm on Wednesday during the funeral service of prominent businessman, philanthropist and social worker Yashitsungba Ao at Dimapur Stadium. Ao, aged 92, passed away in a private hospital owned by him here on Tuesday.
All business establishments in the town downed their shutters during the period as a mark of respect to the pioneer businessman of the State who was known for his humanitarian works. However, vehicular movement, offices and educational institutions functioned as usual.
A prominent contractor, Ao was the chairman of Zion Hospital & Research Centre and Eden Medical Centre. He was also former president of Army Contractors and Suppliers� Union and former advisor of Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers� Union (NCSU).
He was conferred Lifetime Achievement Award on the occasion of North East Expo� 2010 in recognition of his contribution and achievements as an entrepreneur.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed grief at Ao�s demise. In a condolence message, Rio said the State has lost a good soul whose contributions to the society would stand the test of time.
Other Ministers, different political parties, organisations and individuals also condoled Ao�s death.
