Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 26 December 2025
The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has accorded sanction for the improvement of two important road projects under the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), with a total estimated cost exceeding ₹12.89 crore. The approved projects include the upgradation of State Highway–08 from Manglutan Junction to Wandoor Beach and the improvement of the rural road from Pump House to Ayyanar Temple at Calicut.
According to official sources, the upgradation of the 6-km stretch of State Highway–08 from Manglutan Junction to Wandoor Beach has been sanctioned at an estimated cost of ₹9,94,39,192. State Highway–08 is a crucial arterial road linking Sri Vijaya Puram with Wandoor, one of the most prominent tourist destinations in South Andaman. The proposed improvement is aimed at enhancing riding quality, improving safety, and ensuring smoother traffic movement, which is expected to significantly benefit commuters as well as boost tourism in the Wandoor region.
In addition, the Administration has sanctioned ₹2,95,49,366 for the improvement of the rural road connecting Pump House to Ayyanar Temple at Calicut. This road project is expected to strengthen connectivity between Garacharma and Calicut, fulfilling a long-pending demand of local residents. Once upgraded, the road will substantially reduce travel distance—by over 6 km—to the proposed District Hospital and nearby educational institutions, thereby improving access to essential services.
Officials also informed that, following the completion of the road improvement works at Calicut, the Administration is planning to introduce bus services on this route, which will further enhance public transport connectivity for the area.
The sanctioned projects are part of the Administration’s ongoing efforts to improve road infrastructure, enhance connectivity, and support tourism and public convenience across South Andaman.
