Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 25 May 2024
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has urged the administration to acquire at least two tug boats to enhance the maritime infrastructure of the islands. In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Sharma emphasized the critical role of ships in connecting the islands internally and with mainland India, highlighting the necessity of smooth maritime operations for the region’s development and the residents’ safety.
Sharma pointed out the current deficiency in tug boat availability, noting that the administration’s sole tug boat, “Andaman Tug,” is presently under repair. This lack of operational tug boats, he warned, poses a significant risk to the safety of ships, especially at key ports like Haddo and Chatham. These ports, essential for both passenger and cargo vessels, require at least one operational tug boat to ensure safe handling and maneuvering.
He further stressed the urgency for tug boats at the ports of Car Nicobar and Mayabunder. The absence of such critical support vessels compromises the safety and efficiency of port operations in these areas.
“Ships serve as the lifeline for the people of these islands, facilitating not only internal connectivity but also crucial links with mainland India,” Sharma stated in his letter. He highlighted that the smooth functioning of maritime routes is essential for the overall development, convenience, and safety of island residents.
Sharma requested the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to expedite the procurement of at least two new tug boats. He proposed that these vessels could be strategically deployed at various ports, including Port Blair, Mayabunder, and Car Nicobar, on an as-needed basis to ensure comprehensive coverage and operational flexibility.
The acquisition of these tug boats, Sharma argued, is vital for maintaining the safety and efficiency of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ maritime infrastructure, thereby supporting the region’s economic and social well-being.
ANI’s Port Management Board firstly doesn’t have trained and experienced master and crew to handle sofisticated modern tug boats. Secondly, the pay and incentives offered to tug master and crew are very low as compared to mainland. It may be noted that ANI is very costly to live. Same is the case with Pilot post.