Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 24 January 2025
The President of the Andaman Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC), Mr. Rangalal Halder, has written to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, urging for immediate action to address the growing need for temporary accommodation for caregivers accompanying patients referred to Sri Vijaya Puram (Port Blair) for medical treatment. The appeal comes in the wake of ongoing repair and maintenance work at the SVPMC Dharamshala, a facility that has long been a crucial resource for caregivers, making it unavailable at present.
In his letter, Mr. Halder emphasized the critical role that the PBMC Dharamshala has played in providing affordable lodging for caregivers traveling from the Inter-Islands to Sri Vijaya Puram. The facility has been a lifeline for many, offering a place of stay during patients’ prolonged medical treatments. However, with the Dharamshala currently out of service, caregivers are facing increased difficulty in finding affordable and suitable accommodations. This has only added to the emotional and financial stress experienced by families already grappling with the health challenges of their loved ones.
Mr. Halder urged the A&N Administration to explore immediate alternatives, such as identifying another building or facility that could serve as temporary housing for caregivers until the Dharamshala is fully operational again. He stressed that such an initiative would provide much-needed relief, allowing caregivers to focus on supporting their loved ones through their treatment without the added pressure of securing accommodations.
The ANTCC President’s appeal underscores the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for swift administrative action to support families in need during these challenging times.