Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 26 August 2024
In response to the frequent maintenance requirement of blacktop roads in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, exacerbated by the region’s climatic conditions, the A&N Administration has announced a pilot project to construct 32 kilometres of white-topped roads in the South Andaman district. Among the roads selected for this initiative is a section of the Tushnabad-Collinpur road, with the design set to be vetted by the Central Road Research Institute (CRRI), New Delhi.
As part of the project’s groundwork, Commissioner-cum-Secretary (PWD) Ms. Nandini Paliwal, IAS, along with Secretary (PWD) Ms. Purva Garg, IAS, Chief Engineer Er. T. K. Prijith Rekh of the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), and other senior officials visited the proposed road.
The Commissioner also reviewed other roads slated for development under the Annual Action Plan 2024-25, including the Tirur-Colinpur road and the NH4 to Badmashpahar road. During her inspection, she emphasized the importance of incorporating comprehensive street designs as per the directives of the Chief Secretary.
The proposed street designs will feature hard berms, footpaths, street furniture, bus bays, street lighting, and drainage systems tailored to the population and utility needs of each area. This approach is expected to enhance both the functionality and safety of the roads in the district.
Furthermore, the Commissioner instructed the APWD to commence road repairs immediately after the monsoon season. She stressed the need to complete the tender process and other formalities before the onset of fair weather to ensure timely execution of the projects.
During her tour, the Commissioner also visited the Pahargaon-Austinabad area to assess the sites for major drainage works. These drains have been proposed in response to requests from local representatives and are expected to address longstanding drainage issues in the region.
Secretary (PWD) Ms. Purva Garg, IAS, underscored the importance of maintaining high standards in the construction process by mandating third-party quality checks for all major projects. The administration aims to complete the proposed works within the current financial year, marking a significant step towards improving infrastructure in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.