Rohit Kumar
Port Blair, 19 June 2023
Mr. Kuldeep Rai Sharma, the Member of Parliament of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has appealed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to consider leasing or hiring two tugboats on a short-term contract, spanning at least 3 to 4 years.
In a letter addressed to the Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Mr. Sharma expressed gratitude for the continuous efforts that have led to the arrival of two new ships, MV Nalanda and MV Sindhu, at Andaman and Nicobar Islands. However, he highlighted a pressing concern – the absence of a tugboat that has hindered the docking of these ships at Car Nicobar Jetty.
Mr. Sharma pointed out that the reliance on MV Bharat Seema, which lacks modern amenities for passengers and operates at a slower pace, has caused significant difficulties for travelers journeying from Port Blair to Car Nicobar. This situation has necessitated immediate attention to ensure the convenience and well-being of passengers.
The Member of Parliament also emphasized the challenges faced by ships operating at Port Blair due to the limited availability of tugboats.
Although orders for new tugboats have been placed, Mr. Sharma highlighted the time-consuming process of procurement and construction, which can span several years. To address this issue promptly, he urged the Hon’ble Lt. Governor to consider leasing or hiring two tugboats on a short-term contract for a minimum period of 3 to 4 years.
Mr. Sharma believes that this solution will not only enable the people of Car Nicobar to benefit from the services of the new ships MV Nalanda and MV Sindhu, but it will also enhance the efficiency of the food supply chain and various maritime operations. By taking immediate action, the region’s connectivity and overall maritime operations will experience significant improvement.