Sri Vijaya Puram | March 6, 2026
Senior Congress leader and Chairman of the Campaign Committee of the Andaman & Nicobar Territorial Congress Committee (ANTCC), G. Bhasker, has written to the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration highlighting the deteriorating condition of key tourism infrastructure across the Islands and urging immediate intervention.
In his letter dated March 5, Bhasker drew attention to the worsening condition of Ross Island, stating that the island’s maintenance has significantly declined in recent times. He noted that when the island was earlier managed by defence authorities, it was maintained in a far better and more organized manner. However, at present the upkeep appears neglected and the overall condition has become unsatisfactory.
Bhasker also pointed out that garbage clearance on Ross Island is not being carried out regularly on a weekly basis, resulting in an unpleasant environment for visitors. He stated that the current management of the island appears unplanned and lacks proper maintenance, which adversely affects the image of the Islands before domestic and international tourists. He emphasized that tourism forms the backbone of the economy of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and such negligence could damage the reputation of the destination.
The Congress leader further highlighted the poor condition of toilets at Jirkatang Check Post, Middle Strait Jetty and Nilambur Jetty. According to him, these facilities are in an unhygienic state and require urgent repair and regular maintenance. He noted that tourists and local passengers travelling along this route are facing considerable inconvenience despite the facilities operating as pay-and-use toilets.
Bhasker also stressed the need for regular cleaning of several beaches and improved waste management practices. He warned that if immediate corrective measures are not taken, the situation could negatively impact tourism and the overall reputation of the Islands.
He has requested the Chief Secretary to direct the concerned departments to take immediate remedial steps and ensure proper maintenance of tourism infrastructure in the larger public interest.
