Dimapur: Dimapur town remained shut for two hours from noon on Wednesday during the funeral service of prominent businessman, philanthropist and social worker Yashitsungba Ao at Dimapur Stadium.

The popular entrepreneur passed away at a private hospital owned by him here on Tuesday. He was 92.

All the businessmen establishments in the town downed shutters during the period as a mark of respect to the pioneer businessman of the state who was known for his humanitarian work.

However, traffic continued as usual and offices and educational institutions were open.

A prominent contractor, Ao was the chairman of Zion Hospital and Research Centre and Eden Medical Centre.

He was also the former president of the Army Contractors and Suppliers' Union and former adviser to the Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers' Union. He was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award during the North East Expo 2010 in recognition of his contribution and achievements as an entrepreneur.

Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio expressed grief at Ao's demise.

In a condolence message, the chief minister said the state had lost a good soul whose contributions to society would stand the test of time.

Other ministers, members of political parties, organisations and individuals also condoled Ao's death.